Bulk Carrier KT Venture Launched

 Tokyo, March 28, 2007 – Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation today launched the KT Venture bulk carrier for Liberia-based Pine Maritime Corporation at its Kobe Shipyard. The carrier, identified as Kawasaki hull No. 1577 and the 14th 55,500 DWT bulk carrier developed by Kawasaki Shipbuilding, will be delivered in June 2007 after outfitting at the quay of the Shipyard.

 The 189.9 m vessel has a flush deck with forecastle and five holds that are designed for optimum transport of grains, coals, ores and steel products. A new proprietary bow designed to reduce wave resistance allows the ship to operate with less fuel. Four 30 ton deck cranes are installed in the center in between hatch covers to enable cargo loading and unloading in ports where no cargo handling facilities are available. It is powered by a lightweight, compact Kawasaki-MAN B&W 6S50MC-C high-output engine.