HANDYSIZE VESSELS
Handysize and Handymax vessels make up the bulk of the world's ocean-going cargo fleet. Handysize vessels are generally capable of handling shipments between 25,000 and 35,000 dwt (dead weight tonnes). Both types of vessels are more maneuverable and have shallower draft than larger vessels and can access a wider variety of cargo types and port scenarios. Most Handysize ships are “geared”, i.e. fitted with cranes, allowing them to load and discharge cargoes at ports which lack cranes or other cargo handling systems. Compared to larger dry bulk shipping carriers these vessels carry a wider variety of cargo types.
HANDYMAX VESSELS
Handymax vessels are larger versions of the popular Handysize Vessels, capable of carrying approximately 35,000 to 60,000 dwt (dead weight tonnes) of dry bulk cargo. A typical Handymax ship will be outfitted with five dry bulk cargo holds, and up to four cranes with 30 metric ton lifting capacity for cargo self-load/unload operations in suitable ports. These ships are typically available for international shipping.
PANAMAX VESSELS
Panamax vessels are very large ocean-going vessels that are designed to take advantage of the maximum vessel capacity of the Panama Canal. These ships can typically carry between 60,000 and 85,000 dwt (dead weight tonnes) and are the shipping vessels of choice for many dry bulk shipping cargoes such as grain or minerals.
SUPRAMAX BULK CARRIERS
One very important size is the "Supramax " - a type which became more and more popular since 2001. These vessels are ranging between 50,000dwat and 61,000dwat (designers working on even larger vessels up to 63,000dwat ), have usually five cargo holds and deck cranes with a lifting capacity between 25mt and 40mt with most vessels being fitted with own grabs. A fairly big number are constructed as double hull vessels.
CAPESIZE BULK CARRIERS
Capesize vessels (length 230 to 270 m, draft 17 m), with carrying capacity between 80,000 to 199,000 dwt (dead weight tonnes), are too large for the Panama Canal and trade from the Atlantic around the Cape of Good Hope.
