CSL unveils hybrid self-unloader for offshore projects in Europe

Canada Steam Ship Lines (CSL) has officially introduced its latest vessel, the MV CSL Flexvik, a cutting-edge hybrid self-loading and unloading ship designed for the offshore energy sector. Delivered on May 31, 2025, from Wulkan Shipyard in Szczecin, Poland, this 18,003 dwt vessel marks a significant advancement in marine construction logistics. With its versatile cargo handling capabilities, the CSL Flexvik is set to enhance the efficiency of infrastructure and offshore energy projects across Europe.

Advanced Features and Operational Flexibility

The MV CSL Flexvik represents a strategic transformation from a conventional bulk carrier into a specialized vessel tailored for the unique demands of marine construction. Equipped with two gantry-mounted electric excavators, the ship can efficiently offload cargo using a conveyor belt system featuring a 45-meter discharge boom or directly through its onboard excavators. This dual capability allows for single-point discharge to stockpiles, transloading materials to other vessels, and handling larger rock gradings with ease.

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Louis Martel, President and CEO of CSL, emphasized the operational flexibility that the CSL Flexvik brings to the marine construction logistics sector. The vessel can transport a diverse range of cargo, including fine sand, gravel, and 1-3 tonne armour rock. Its multiple discharge options not only streamline subsea rock installation logistics but also significantly reduce port time and associated costs. Measuring 150 meters in length and 23.6 meters in width, the CSL Flexvik is wholly owned and operated by CSL and is currently active in European waters.

CSL’s expansion into offshore logistics began in 2024 with the establishment of CSL Offshore Logistics, focusing on rock sourcing and supply for offshore wind projects. The company has partnered with Peak to form the Peak CSL Group, which aims to deliver comprehensive offshore logistics services and design low-emission vessels for Norway’s short sea market. Additionally, CSL has collaborated with Offshore Wind Logistics (OWL) to create CSL OWL SRI, marking its entry into the subsea rock installation segment. This venture includes the order of two 17,500 dwt subsea rock installation vessels equipped with dynamic positioning (DP2) capabilities.

Commitment to Sustainability

In its recent sustainability report, CSL highlighted significant progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its global fleet by seven percent compared to 2023. The company is advancing its green fuel strategy and has commenced construction on what it claims is the “world’s first” fully electric, battery-capable self-unloading vessel. This vessel, being developed under a 20-year partnership with Adelaide Brighton Cement, is scheduled for delivery in 2026. It is expected to initially reduce diesel consumption by 25 percent and Scope 1 emissions by 40 percent, with full electric capability projected by 2031, leading to over 90 percent emission reductions.

With the launch of the MV CSL Flexvik and its ongoing commitment to sustainability, CSL is poised to play a pivotal role in the evolving landscape of offshore energy logistics.

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