Hong Kong-based Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL), a subsidiary of COSCO, has proudly announced the commissioning of its latest 16,828 teu container vessel, the OOCL Iris, heralding a landmark achievement in the maritime shipping industry. This state-of-the-art vessel represents the second in a series of ten 16,000 TEU ships ordered by the carrier and is notably the first to be delivered by Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering (NACKS).
"This series of vessels exemplifies world-class standards in intelligent and environmentally conscious design. They significantly enhance OOCL’s operational efficiency and contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions, meeting both customer expectations and broader societal imperatives for sustainable maritime operations."
A Dual Significance in Nomenclature
The vessel's name, ‘Iris’, bears a profound dual symbolism, paying homage both to the elegant flower and to OOCL’s proprietary technological innovation, the Integrated Regional Information System (IRIS). This revolutionary IT infrastructure, launched in 1999, transformed OOCL’s operational landscape by consolidating global business processes, customer shipment management, and financial data into a singular, centralised system. The system’s continuous evolution has cemented its critical role in overcoming operational complexities and enhancing business agility.Technological Superiority in Maritime Design
The OOCL Iris, alongside its sister vessels, epitomises the pinnacle of maritime technological innovation. Each vessel is outfitted with an intelligent integrated platform designed to optimise operational efficiency through advanced data collection, storage, and transmission capabilities.Key among its features is a cutting-edge energy efficiency system, which provides real-time recommendations for speed and trim adjustments. This system meticulously monitors and manages fuel consumption, engine output, generator efficiency, and boiler performance to ensure maximum operational effectiveness while minimising environmental impact.Deployment and Operational Scope
Destined to serve the Transpacific ECX1 trade route, the oocl Iris will embark on a meticulously planned port rotation encompassing Hong Kong, Yantian, Xiamen, Shanghai, New York, Savannah, Charleston, Laem Chabang, Cai Mep, and a return to Hong Kong. This extensive voyage will span a 91-day round trip, underscoring the vessel's strategic role in transoceanic trade.Commitment to Green Shipping
In a statement underscoring OOCL’s commitment to sustainable shipping, Weidong Tao, CEO of OOCL, remarked:"This series of vessels exemplifies world-class standards in intelligent and environmentally conscious design. They significantly enhance OOCL’s operational efficiency and contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions, meeting both customer expectations and broader societal imperatives for sustainable maritime operations."
