Hello,
During my research on MSC's fleet, I have noticed a trend which is that they have systematically increased the DWT and max draft on many of their ships.
A couple of examples:
- MSC MICHEL CAPPELLINI, when delivered, the DWT was recorded as 240.854 and draft 17 metres. Now, it has been increased to a whopping 281.456 DWT and draft 18,85 metres.
- MSC FEBE, DWT was 228.149 and draft 16,5 m. Now 254.042 DWT and draft 17,75 m.
- MSC AGRIGENTO, DWT was 110.652 and draft 14,5 m. Now 127.952 DWT and draft 15,85 m.
A couple of questions: a) Why weren't the ships delivered with these larger specs in the first place? b) Are there any structural changes needed when increasing these specs? c) The TEU number can't be increased by these changes, but is this all for the reason that they can now carry heavier containers? d) How does this affect the fuel economy and the service speed of the ship?
Thank you in advance for any insights!
Cheers,
Aleksi