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Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has today launched Hatsu Sigma , the second in a series of ten 7024 TEU S-type container vessels that it is building for the Evergreen Group. The vessel, which will be operated by London-headquartered Hatsu Marine Ltd, was named by Mrs Susan Bligh, wife of Captain Stephen Bligh, Chief Executive of the UK's Maritime & Coastguard Agency.
The Evergreen Group will take delivery of 18 post - Panamax containerships over the period 2005 to 2008 - ten S-types and eight 8000 TEU C-types - allowing the Group companies to upgrade existing services and phase out older vessels.
Hatsu Sigma is due to be delivered to Evergreen Group company Hatsu Marine in November 2005 and will commence her maiden voyage to Europe shortly thereafter. She will become the ninth vessel in the Hatsu-owned fleet following the delivery of sistership, Hatsu Shine, in September this year. The fleet also comprises five 6332 TEU E-class vessels that operate between the Far East and the West Coast of North America and two 1618 TEU P-class vessels currently deployed in regional Asian services within the Evergreen Group. All ships fly the UK flag.
Speaking at the naming ceremony, Evergreen Group Chairman, Dr Y F Chang said:
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"Over the past 37 years, since the inception of Evergreen Marine, I have named over a hundred ships. Despite the numerous launches I have attended, I still find each launch as unique and overwhelming as the first as a sleek and beautiful ship enters the water for the first time. I am grateful to the industry and for the co-operation and hard work of the MHI team that has worked tirelessly to make this a reality." |
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"Hatsu Sigma is the second of ten S-type vessels on order with MHI and will be introduced to our European trades upon its delivery. We have, so far, commissioned 47 vessels with MHI, all of which are now actively plying the seven seas of the world, offering the most comprehensive and efficient services to customers. Indeed, we owe the modest success we have achieved to date to the good auspices of both MHI and everyone present here today. Through your constant support and endorsement, you have made the Evergreen Group what it is today." |
Hatsu Marine was established in London on 4 January, 2002. Through slot-sharing and joint service agreements with other carriers including Evergreen and Lloyd Triestino, it now offers its customers a network of services embracing Asia, North America and Europe. With the expansion of its fleet over the next few years, it will be adding to the number of services offered and expanding its capacity on existing services.
 Introducing Evergreen's Special S-type Series of Green Ships
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