First European-built CO₂ carrier receives its deck hatches at Wagenborg terminal in Delfzijl

The construction of the first CO₂ carrier built in Europe has reached a significant stage with the installation of its deck hatches. These hatches now cover and protect the CO₂ tanks, which are designed to transport approximately 5,000 tonnes of liquid CO₂.

The hatches were manufactured at a shipyard in Emden under the supervision of Royal Niestern Sander. On Monday, January 19, Wagenborg loaded the hatches in Emden onto the pontoon Wagenborg Barge 15 and towed them to the Wagenborg terminal in Delfzijl. The following day, two Wagenborg mobile cranes—a 500-ton crane and a 100-ton crane —discharched the four hatches from the pontoon and placed them on the terminal quay.

Once the pontoon departed, the CO₂ carrier Carbon Destroyer 1 was positioned at the quay. The same cranes then lifted the hatches from the quay and installed them on the vessel. This operation required precise coordination between multiple teams and assets to ensure safety and efficiency throughout the process.

This step marks an important moment in the assembly of the CO₂ carrier and demonstrates the complexity of integrating large components under strict safety and quality standards.

The installation of the deck hatches is a critical milestone in preparing the vessel for its intended role in CO₂ transportation. In the coming weeks, the ship will undergo further outfitting, including the commissioning of all onboard systems and machinery. These activities are essential to ready the vessel for sea trials scheduled for March.

The CO₂ carrier project represents a technical innovation in maritime transport, aimed at supporting carbon capture and storage initiatives. By enabling the safe and efficient transport of liquid CO₂ fort he Greensand project, the vessel will signicantly contribute to Europe’s climate goals.