New, further optimised versions of series-produced Dunkirkmax-type bulk carriers have recently been delivered by Japan Marine United (JMU) and compatriot Namura Zosensho. The latest iterations, yielding interlinked improvements in efficiency and environmental performance, testify to Japanese shipbuilders’ continuous refinement of designs that sustain global commodity flows.

The 181,600dwt Proteus has given first form to the N181BC trader from JMU’s Ariake complex, offering an advance in coal and iron ore load capacity over the preceding Dunkirkmax series along with EEDI Phase 3 certification. At almost the same time, Namura delivered the 182,400dwt World Seafarer, a new EEDI 3 version in the same category, constructed at the Imari yard.

Both newbuilds are of some 292m in length overall by 45m beam, each embodying nine holds served by side-rolling hatch covers. Proteus is attributed with a total hold volume approaching 196,000m³, while ClassNK lists World Seafarer with a cargo capacity of 199,524m³.