A new civilian hospital ship set to join the fleet of international charity Mercy Ships has completed its final series of sea trials.
Global Mercy's last series of deep water trials were designed to test the vessel during extended sailing times to ensure that all systems are fully operational and in line with strict standards and specifications. Tests included those that evaluated engine performance, fuel consumption, the navigation and radio equipment, emergency systems, speed tests, manoeuvrability, and thruster tests as well as safety evaluations.
Global Mercy will be delivered to Mercy Ships later this year. Upon arrival in Antwerp, it will undergo a period of final outfitting, crewing, and installation of medical equipment.
Mercy Ships expects the outfitting will last several months.
The ship will enter operational service in 2022. Its main area of operations will encompass sub-Saharan Africa.
Global Mercy is the largest purpose-built civilian hospital ship yet built, with an LOA of 174 metres, a beam of 28.6 metres, a gross tonnage of 37,000, and space for up to 950 people including 641 crew. The vessel also boasts a design draught of 6.15 metres and a service speed of 12 knots.
The hospital decks consist of six operating theatres and hospital wards for 200 patients, a laboratory, and general outpatient, ophthalmology, and dental clinics.
Mercy Ships said the vessel has an anticipated lifespan of 50 years.
Global Mercy was built by Tianjin Xingang Shipyard in China to a design developed by Finnish naval architects Deltamarin. Project management was provided by Stena Roro.
Global Mercy will join the current Mercy Ship, Africa Mercy, in service to sub-Saharan and Central Africa.
