Over the past few years, Fortitudo has established itself as a high-performance transport solution for demanding heavy cargo operations on Europe’s inland waterways. The vessel is now undergoing an extensive technical upgrade.
Since entering service in 2018, Fortitudo has been operating across Europe, transporting complex project cargo and heavy loads. The heavy cargo barge was built in Fécamp, Normandy (France). Designed specifically for oversized heavy cargo and bulky project shipments, the vessel is capable of transporting individual loads of up to 300 tonnes directly via the inland waterway and canal network. Without this concept, many of these transports would otherwise require far more complex short sea shipping operations.
Fortitudo is particularly well suited to the French inland waterway network. The heavy cargo barge has been designed precisely to meet the requirements of the French canal system. Its dimensions are tailored to lock specifications, enabling highly efficient operations. While a conventional péniche typically carries around 220 tonnes at a permitted draught of 180 to 200 centimetres, Fortitudo offers significantly greater transport capacity.
The cargo hold entrance has also been widened. Measuring 460 centimetres instead of the standard 380 centimetres found on conventional péniches, it provides additional flexibility for transporting oversized project cargo.
Extensive Modernisation Programme
Fortitudo is currently undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment and modernisation programme. The former self-propelled heavy cargo barge is being converted into a fully equipped motor vessel. These works represent another important milestone in the continuous development of the Haeger & Schmidt Logistics fleet.
“With the current conversion, we are creating the foundation for deploying Fortitudo even more flexibly and efficiently in the European project logistics market,” explains Toni Nicolay, HSL Branch Manager in Neuenburg. “This modernisation is an important step towards meeting our customers’ growing requirements over the long term.”
The main focus of the conversion is the vessel’s technical modernisation. Fortitudo is being equipped with a significantly more powerful hydraulic drive system and a new propeller, enabling more precise and higher-performance manoeuvring. In addition, a new living area is being created for the crew, providing substantially improved working and living conditions on board.
The wheelhouse is also being partially rebuilt and comprehensively modernised. The work is complemented by the construction and installation of a mobile gangway, providing additional flexibility for day-to-day operations. All modifications are being carried out in accordance with current ES-TRIN regulations and modern technical standards.
Advancing the Fleet’s Technical Capabilities
With this conversion, Haeger & Schmidt Logistics is responding to the growing demands of the European project cargo and heavy transport market. The technical upgrade will enable Fortitudo to operate even more flexibly, efficiently and independently in the future. The work is scheduled for completion by the end of July. With the modernised Fortitudo, Haeger & Schmidt Logistics is further strengthening and expanding its capabilities in project logistics.