| The MSC New Zealand arriving at Bluff. When completed by the Setouchi Shipyard at Kinoe in 1977 she was a standard Strider Class for the then large Sea Containers Group. As such she had a starboard quarter ramp, the recess for which can be seen, and a gantry crane forward which ran on rails along the foredeck. Containers were loaded and discharged via low-loaders which went up and down the ramp, through the tunnel under the accommodation and were positioned by the gantry crane which lacked the usual outrigged arms. In order that the crane could get as far forward as possible the Strider Class had an enormous flare, as can be seen, making them susceptible to damage if driven into a head sea. Chartered by MSC between 1999 and 2001 the ship was in poor condition and I am surprised she is apparently still trading as Feeder 6. |
Dave Edge
