Colombo Dockyard launches tenth Misje Eco Bulk Carrier, ‘Misje Kandy’

Colombo Dockyard PLC has also made a significant history in the shipbuilding of Sri Lanka with the successful launching of its tenth and last vessel in its 5,000 DWT Eco Bulk Carrier series, the Misje Kandy, commissioned by Norwegian-based Misje EcoBulk AS. The opening strengthens the growing reputation of Colombo Dockyard as a competitively-focused shipbuilder with environmentally-friendly vessels that can be distributed to its international customers.

The new eco bulk carrier, named after the ancient capital of Sri Lanka called Kandy, has a commercial and cultural significance. The official ceremony was based on traditional Sri Lankan traditions whereby a pot of milk is broken over the vessel bow to signify prosperity and good-luck and seawater is then poured over the dock to release the ship on its maiden voyage.

The launch ceremony was attended by Roald Misje, Owner of Misje EcoBulk AS, along with CFO Alina Printseva and senior company representatives including Site Manager Thusitha Herath, Venura Wanasinghe, and Prince Jawahar.

The DNV Country Manager Saman A. Kumarisinghe also took part and highlighted the conformity of the vessel to international standards of maritime classification and safety regulations.

Addressing the gathering, Colombo Dockyard Managing Director and CEO Thimira Godakumbura expressed appreciation to the shipowners for selecting a Sri Lankan heritage name for the vessel, describing it as a meaningful recognition of the country’s shipbuilding capabilities. Roald Misje highlighted the strong partnership between the two companies, noting the successful delivery of ten eco bulk carriers over the past five years, a testament to consistent quality, trust, and technical excellence.

Colombo Dockyard PLC, a major participant in the maritime and shipbuilding industry in Sri Lanka, is still gaining and awarding international shipbuilding contracts, which are a significant source of export revenue and foreign exchange earnings. The forming of the Misje Eco Bulk Carrier series also reinforces the role of Sri Lanka on the world shipbuilding map and contributes to the development of the maritime strategy of the country in the long term.