THE newest vessel in shipping company Universal Africa Line’s fleet, the UAL Africa, makes its maiden voyage from Aberdeen this week.
It will visit Antwerp, in Belgium, before making its way with a cargo of oil and gas-related equipment to the west African ports of Takoradi, Lobito and Soyo.
UAL, represented in the UK by shipping agent Kestrel Line Agencies (KLA), said the new vessel had special features, including “wave-piercing abilities” which would help it to maintain speed on transocean routes and reduce CO2 emissions.
Built in the Netherlands, the UAL Africa is a multi-purpose vessel capable of carrying heavy and awkward cargo, containers and long lengths of pipework.
KLA chairman Andy Thorne said: “We are delighted to be celebrating this maiden voyage of the UAL Africa from Aberdeen.
“We think it will be a great addition to the service we provide to customers in the UK who trade with west Africa.”