Sailing Towards Sustainability: “Courage” and “Curiosity” Set New Standards

In a major step towards sustainable inland waterway transport, Covestro and HGK Shipping have collaborated on two state-of-the-art chemical tankers, “Courage” and “Curiosity.” These innovative vessels showcase a significant advancement in eco-friendly maritime logistics and the transition to climate neutrality.

Cutting-Edge Design and Technology

Both tankers feature a modern diesel-electric drive system, similar to hybrid cars, which reduces emissions. Additionally, they are designed with space for future emission-free engines, ensuring they remain at the forefront of green technology.

The “Courage” and “Curiosity” are 93 meters long and 10.5 meters wide, with a bulky yet lightweight design optimized for shallow-water operations. They can carry 160 tonnes with a 1.00-meter draught while maintaining full manoeuvrability. The vessels’ efficient diesel-electric drive system cuts CO2 emissions by up to 30% compared to conventional ships and significantly reduces other pollutants as well, such as particulates.

Future-Ready Sustainability

The tankers are built with the future in mind: So called “void spaces“ allow for the easy installation of new engines powered by green Hydrogen or other sustainable fuels, once they become available and economically viable. This forward-thinking design ensures the vessels can adapt to future sustainability advancements.

“Courage“ and “Curiosity“ have already been in service for the materials manufacturer, Covestro, on the river Rhine and its tributaries since 2023. Their deployment marks a significant milestone in the journey towards climate-neutral maritime logistics, demonstrating that innovation and sustainability can indeed sail together.

Associated SDG targets