#Canada #Montreal #CSL Group #MV CSL Flexvik #Marine Logistics

Introduction

In a significant move for marine construction logistics, the CSL Group has unveiled its latest vessel, the MV CSL Flexvik, aimed primarily at enhancing operations within coastal and offshore projects in Europe. This advanced hybrid self-loading and unloading ship boasts a deadweight tonnage of 18,003 DWT, designed to accommodate diverse cargo types ranging from fine sand to heavy rock armor.

Innovative Design

Delivered on May 31, 2025, by Wulkan Shipyard in Poland, the MV CSL Flexvik stands out due to its unique conversion from a conventional bulk carrier to a specialized vessel tailored for flexible and cost-efficient distribution of construction materials. The engineering behind this transformation ensures that the ship is optimized for demanding logistical tasks related to infrastructure and offshore energy projects.

One of the standout features of the MV CSL Flexvik is its dual gantry-mounted Sennebogen 870 electric excavators, which allow for self-loading and unloading with remarkable precision. These excavators enable the vessel to offload cargo directly via an integrated conveyor belt system complemented by a 45-meter discharge boom. Alternatively, the onboard excavators can be utilized to directly handle materials, showcasing the vessel's versatility.

Key Features

The MV CSL Flexvik brings several advantages to marine construction logistics:

• - Versatile Cargo Handling: The vessel is equipped to transport a full spectrum of materials, making it suitable for various construction needs. It effectively manages everything from sand and crushed stone to substantial rock armor, catering to a wide variety of projects.
• - Multiple Discharge Options: This ship enhances operational flexibility with several offloading methods, including boom discharge, side discharge, or transshipping cargo between vessels. Such capabilities are particularly important in busy maritime environments where efficiency is paramount.
• - Support for Subsea Operations: The ship’s ability to transship heavy materials to other vessels means that it can support subsea rock installation operations without requiring these specialized vessels to leave their operational positions.
• - Cost Efficiency: By utilizing self-operating excavators, the MV CSL Flexvik reduces the dependency on shore-based stevedores, consequently decreasing port time and overall operational costs.

Impact on Marine Construction Logistics

Louis Martel, President and CEO of CSL, emphasizes the operational flexibility that the MV CSL Flexvik introduces to Europe’s marine construction landscape. “This vessel not only increases our capacity to handle diverse projects but also significantly reduces time and costs associated with traditional loading and unloading methods,” he stated.

CSL Group has established itself as a key player in the marine logistics sector, primarily noted for being the largest owner and operator of self-unloading ships globally. The company, headquartered in Montreal, Canada, operates across various regions, including the Americas, Europe, Australia, and Africa. Each year, CSL facilitates the transport of millions of tonnes of cargo essential for the construction, steel, energy, and agri-food sectors.

Conclusion

The introduction of MV CSL Flexvik marks a significant advancement in the capabilities of marine logistics, particularly for the construction industry. By enhancing efficiency and versatility in cargo handling, this vessel is set to play a crucial role in supporting Europe’s infrastructure and energy projects, ensuring that CSL remains at the forefront of innovative maritime solutions.