Different Types of Fleet in the Maritime Industry
Working at sea can be fraught with various dangers and problems for seafarers, the profession of seafarer attracts many young people. But a job at sea implies a long absence from the shore, away from relatives and loved ones. Some become sailors in order to continue family traditions.
An important factor in choosing a maritime profession for many is the prospect of career growth and, therefore, the opportunity to earn more money in the future. But in order to develop in this field in the future, it is necessary to understand what specialties exist and what specialists are required.
When you are coming to fleet choices, it's important to note that each fleet category includes a wide range of vessel sizes and specifications to suit specific operational requirements. Additionally, advancements in maritime technology and sustainability practices have led to the development of hybrid vessels, electric ferries, and more eco-friendly solutions within the maritime industry. Consulting with maritime experts can provide valuable guidance to ensure the fleet choice aligns with the specific needs of seafaring operations.. Here are some common types of fleets in the maritime industry and the vessels typically chosen for each category:
Cargo fleet is for transporting goods and commodities by sea, cargo fleets often consist of container ships, bulk carriers, and general cargo ships. These vessels are designed to efficiently carry large quantities of cargo. Examples include Panamax and Post-Panamax container ships, Capesize bulk carriers, and multipurpose cargo ships.
Tanker fleet is involved in transporting various liquid cargoes, such as crude oil, petroleum products, chemicals, and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Tanker vessels are classified into different categories based on their cargo type and size. Common types include crude oil tankers, product tankers, chemical tankers, and LNG carriers.
Passenger fleet is dedicated to providing transportation services for passengers. Passenger fleets include cruise ships, ferries, and luxury yachts. Cruise ships come in various sizes, accommodating a large number of passengers, while ferries serve shorter distances, often transporting vehicles and pedestrians across water bodies.
Offshore fleet support various offshore operations, such as oil and gas exploration, production, and maintenance. Offshore fleet typically consists of offshore supply vessels (OSVs), platform supply vessels (PSVs), anchor handling tug supply vessels (AHTS), and crew boats. These vessels are equipped to transport supplies, personnel, and equipment to offshore installations.
Fishing fleet is involved in commercial fishing activities, including catching, processing, and storing fish and seafood products. These fleets comprise fishing trawlers, longliners, purse seiners, and factory ships equipped with processing facilities.
Research Fleet is dedicated to scientific exploration, oceanographic studies, and marine research. These fleets may include research vessels equipped with advanced scientific equipment, laboratories, and diving facilities to support various scientific missions and data collection.