New Builds: Matson Inter-Island Barge Design

Concept and Preliminary Design

HEC developed a general arrangement drawing and an outline specification for the barge.​ Matson’s unique requirements for block container stowage of 20ft and 40ft containers, as well as the loading and discharge of containers in remote ports without shoreside gantry cranes—using only top pick container handling equipment onboard the barge and shoreside—were carefully reviewed and incorporated into the design. The deck strength and securing system were enhanced to support higher container stack weights than on the previous barge. A below-deck machinery space was included to provide ballast for trim and heel adjustments, as well as power for lighting and refrigerated container stowage. Additionally, a shoreside ramp was included in the construction package for loading and unloading the container side picks/top loaders and for handling rolling stock cargo. (2019-2020)