Greenpeace orders new Rainbow Warrior

Environmentalist organization Greenpeace International has ordered a new Rainbow Warrior from the Fassmer shipyard in Bremen, German.

The Rainbow Warrior III will replace the current Rainbow Warrior II, which was rebuilt in 1989 based on the hull of the deep sea fishing ship Grampian Fame, launched in 1957.

"The Rainbow Warrior II steel hull is of vintage riveted construction which is becoming increasingly expensive to maintain to the highest classification standards. We will need a new Rainbow Warrior in order to meet our future global campaign challenges," says Greenpeace. "Upgrading the existing ship is not technically or financially feasible and converting a second hand ship would compromise our campaigning and energy conservation needs. After careful consideration--we have decided that building a vessel from scratch is by far the best option."

Designed by Gerard Dijkstra and Partners of Amsterdam, the ship will be built primarily to sail (using wind energy instead of fossil fuels), with the option in unsuitable weather conditions to switch over to engine-powered, diesel-electric propulsion. It will also have the following green features:

Hull shape designed specifically for superior energy efficiency
A-frame mast and sails-- optimized for highly effective sailing
Electric drive system (10 knots on only 300 kW)
Green ship class notation with Green Passport
Biological treatment of sewage and gray water
Central filling and venting system for fuel and oils to prevent spills
Environmentally friendly paint system
Re-use of engine heat to make hot water

First steel won't be cut until early 2010 but preparations for the build will start immediately and the ship will be launched in 2011, Greenpeace's 40th anniversary year. The environmental organization hasn't said what the ship will cost--but is inviting donations.

Main dimensions
Length over all--57.92 m
Beam (Max.)--11.30 m
Design Draft--5.00 m
Air draft--50.50 m
Tonnage--Approx 838 GT