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Coaster Specifications

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These are general averages and can vary depending on the specific design of a Coaster.

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1. Deadweight Tonnage (DWT):

This refers to the maximum weight a ship can safely carry, including the crew, passengers, cargo, fuel, water, and stores. For Coasters, this typically ranges between 1,000 and 15,000 metric tons DWT.

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2. Length Overall (LOA):

This is the maximum length of the vessel. For Coasters, it’s usually around 60-140 meters.

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3. Breadth (Width):

Typically, the breadth of a Coaster is around 10-20 meters.

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4. Draft:

The draft of these vessels will generally range from around 4 to 8 meters when fully loaded. The draft will change depending on the weight and distribution of its cargo.

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5. Cargo Capacity:

Cargo capacity can vary, but typically these vessels can carry between 3,000 to 10,000 cubic meters of bulk cargo.

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6. Number of Holds/Hatches:

Coasters usually have 2 to 4 cargo holds with corresponding hatches for loading and unloading cargo.

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7. Engine Power:

This can vary significantly depending on the exact design of the ship, but the main engine of a Coaster typically might generate around 1,500 to 4,000 horsepower.

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8. Speed:

On average, Coasters can travel at speeds around 10-14 knots.

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What is a Coaster?

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Coasters are small to medium-sized cargo ships, typically ranging from 60 to 140 meters in length with a deadweight tonnage (DWT) between 1,000 and 15,000 tons. The term "Coaster" comes from their primary use along coastal routes, where their size and versatility make them particularly useful.

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Due to their smaller size and superior maneuverability, Coasters are essential to the global fleet. They can access numerous small and medium-sized ports that larger ships cannot reach, making them invaluable for regional trade. Coasters are often equipped with onboard cranes, allowing them to load and unload cargo in ports that may lack the necessary infrastructure for larger vessels.

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Coasters are commonly used on shorter sea routes, often within a single region or along a coastline, where the capacity of larger ships like Handysize or Panamax vessels is not required. They transport a diverse range of cargoes, including minor bulks such as agricultural products, construction materials, and general cargo, as well as more specialized cargoes.

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Their versatility and flexibility make Coasters an essential component of the regional shipping fleet, significantly contributing to local and regional maritime trade. They play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and timely delivery of goods, supporting local economies, and facilitating trade between smaller ports.

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Coaster Employment

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Coasters are frequently employed on trade routes that benefit from their unique features: smaller size, flexibility, and the capability to self-load and unload using onboard cranes. These characteristics make Coasters ideal for ports with size limitations or minimal infrastructure.

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Here’s a closer look at the employment and types of cargo handled by Coasters:

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Employment:

‍Coasters typically participate in "tramp trade," meaning they do not operate on fixed routes or schedules. They transport cargo wherever it needs to go, which can vary from voyage to voyage. Due to their size and flexibility, these vessels can access smaller and less developed ports that larger vessels cannot reach. This makes them perfect for routes with varying port conditions or where cargo volumes do not justify the use of larger vessels.

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Coaster Cargo

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Coasters transport a diverse range of cargo, often handling various "minor" bulk cargoes. Here are the typical types of cargo carried by Coasters:

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1. Agricultural Products:

These include crops like soybeans, wheat, corn, barley, and other grains, as well as fruits and vegetables.

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2. Construction Materials:

Coasters frequently transport cement, sand, gravel, bricks, and other building supplies.

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3. General Cargo:

This category includes packaged goods, machinery, equipment, and other items that are not transported in intermodal containers.

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4. Forest Products:

These can include logs, lumber, pulp, and similar materials, often transported from smaller ports with limited infrastructure.

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5. Fertilizers:

Various types of fertilizers, including chemical and organic, are commonly shipped via Coasters.

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6. Chemicals and Hazardous Materials:

Coasters can handle smaller quantities of chemicals, hazardous materials, and specialized cargo that require careful handling.

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7. Break-Bulk Cargo:

This includes non-containerized goods, products packed in bags, boxes, or drums, and items that must be loaded individually.

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The Versatility and Economic Impact of Coasters

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Coasters' primary advantage lies in their versatility. Their smaller size and onboard loading/unloading equipment make them suitable for a wide array of tasks. While larger vessels might offer more efficiency for single, large-volume cargoes, Coasters can transport a diverse range of smaller-volume cargoes, enabling them to adapt to changing market conditions and varied cargo types.

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Despite being smaller than many other types of cargo ships, Coasters make up a significant portion of the global cargo fleet. They are more cost-effective to build and operate than larger ships, making them a popular choice for many shipping companies, especially those operating in regional or specialized markets.

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Coasters play a vital role in the regional economy. They facilitate trade, especially for countries with smaller ports that cannot accommodate larger vessels. This includes not only developed nations but also emerging economies where port infrastructure may be less developed.

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The versatility and economic impact of Coasters ensure their continued importance in regional and coastal shipping networks, supporting economic growth and trade efficiency.

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