Construction on track for GLDD’s new hopper dredger

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock newest trailing suction hopper dredge being built at Conrad Shipyards is progressing as planned with the vessel being on track for an on-time delivery on Q1 of 2023.

This 6,500-cubic-yard-capacity hopper dredge will feature two 800mm suction pipes and will be able to dredge at depths of up to 100 feet, with principal dimensions of approximately 346 feet in length, 69 feet in breadth and 23 feet in depth and total installed horse power of 16,500.

The newbuild will be equipped with a direct high power pump-ashore installation, dredging system automation, dynamic positioning and tracking, US EPA Tier IV compliant engines, and additional features designed to minimize the impact of its dredging process on the environment.

According to Lasse Petterson, Chief Executive Officer and President of GLDD, this highly automated vessel will increase the capabilities of the company’s hopper fleet in the coastal protection and maintenance markets as well addressing specific needs in the growing offshore wind market.

Also worth mentioning is that this C-Job designed TSHD will be the first US registered, ABS classed, compliant with the USCG Alternate Compliance Program, and receiving a DR-68 reduced freeboard assignment.

Having a DR-68 reduced freeboard assignment will allow the TSHD to increase its payload beyond its load line while maintaining an equivalent level of safety. The TSHD will be capable of dredging operations both in the US as well as internationally.