The Maritime Office in Gdynia, located in northern Poland, officially christened its latest trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD) on Friday, August 9. The vessel, named Ursa (meaning “Bear”), was constructed by the Finnish shipyard Tyovene and designed by the Dutch firm C-Job Naval Architects.
Specifications of the Ursa Dredger
Ursa features a robust steel hull, measuring 62.75 meters in length, with a hopper capacity of 950 cubic meters. This modern TSHD is equipped to perform dredging operations at depths of up to 18 meters, ensuring efficient and reliable service.
Advanced Dredging Technology
The dredging system on Ursa, supplied by Holland Marine Technologies, includes state-of-the-art equipment such as a suction drag arm and a powerful dredge pump. The dredge pump boasts an impressive flow rate of 3,500 cubic meters per hour, making Ursa one of the most efficient dredgers in the region.
Purpose and Mission of the Ursa Dredger
Ursa’s primary mission is to maintain the navigability of the main waterway connecting the Gulf of Gdańsk, the Vistula Lagoon, and the Elbląg River. This critical task ensures that vessels can pass through these waterways safely and efficiently.
Maintaining Smaller Ports in the Vistula Lagoon
In addition to its work on the main waterway, Ursa will also focus on preserving the depth parameters of smaller ports within the Vistula Lagoon. This work is essential for the continued operation and accessibility of these ports, supporting local economies and maritime activities.
Strategic Design for Optimal Performance
The design of the Ursa dredger is strategically optimized for its operating environment. The TSHD’s wheelhouse and accommodation are positioned at the front of the vessel, a feature that enables it to pass safely beneath the Trasa Unii Europejskiej bridge. This design ensures that Ursa can operate in a wide range of environments without encountering obstacles.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Ursa dredger marks a significant enhancement in Poland’s maritime infrastructure. With its advanced technology and strategic design, Ursa is set to play a crucial role in maintaining vital waterways and supporting the operational needs of smaller ports in the Vistula Lagoon. The Maritime Office in Gdynia’s investment in this state-of-the-art dredger underscores its commitment to ensuring the long-term navigability and safety of Poland’s waterways.