In order to expand its activities beyond the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO) has successfully completed the acquisition of a second Handysize dry cargo vessel. This was reported by the company’s press service.

The project to acquire the vessel was financed by funds received from bonds issued by ASCO. The new vessel, in accordance with the instructions of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, will be called Murovdag.

This dry cargo vessel has a deadweight of 38 thousand tons, like the first Handysize vessel, Khojaly, which was put into operation in May of this year. Its length is 179.9 m, width – 30 m, side height – 15 m, draft – 10.47 m, and maximum speed – 15.7 knots. A small draft at maximum load allows it to easily enter many shallow ports. The vessel, which meets international environmental standards, is fuel-efficient and equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems, was built in Japan in 2020. The bulk carrier, which has an unlimited cruising range, will make its maiden voyage from China to Ecuador, and from there to Colombia. It is expected to arrive at its destination port in December.