MV Wontanara becomes the first of five purpose-built 41,800 DWT transhipment shuttle vessels supporting Guinea’s flagship Simandou iron ore project
CSL Group has taken delivery of MV Wontanara, the first of five next-generation transhipment shuttle vessels (TSVs) being built to support the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea, one of the world’s largest mining and infrastructure developments.
Designed in-house by CSL and constructed by CSSC Chengxi Shipyard, the newbuild introduces a highly advanced transhipment platform engineered to maximise bulk cargo handling efficiency.
Each vessel in the five-ship class features a 41,800-deadweight-tonne (DWT) capacity and is equipped with a dual-boom self-unloading system capable of transferring up to 12,000 tonnes of iron ore per hour. According to CSL, this makes the fleet the fastest and most efficient transhipment shuttle vessels currently in operation.
Purpose-built to move large volumes of iron ore efficiently between river terminals and offshore bulk carriers, the TSV design features a shallow-draft hull optimized for river navigation, five azimuth thrusters that deliver exceptional manoeuvrability and precision, and bi-directional navigation capability that enhances both safety and operational efficiency.
“The advanced design and cargo-handling capabilities of this fleet reflect CSL’s expertise in transforming complex logistics challenges into practical, high-performance maritime solutions,” said Louis Martel, CSL President and CEO. “Working closely with our customer, we designed an integrated transhipment system that enables safe, efficient and continuous high-volume exports in shallow-water environments.”
CSL led the development of this transhipment solution from concept design through to engineering, construction and delivery. Leveraging its strong track record in self-unloading vessel design and transhipment operations, CSL established the fleet’s technical requirements, led the engineering and design phases, and provided oversight throughout construction.
MV Wontanara is the first of five TSVs that will enter service in support of the Simandou project, with the balance of the fleet scheduled for delivery over the coming months.
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