Arctech Helsinki Shipyard says it has started to construct icebreaking (Arc7) tanker for Greek ship owner. Tanker will transport gas condensate from Yamal peninsula to Europe. Hull erection and keel laying ceremonies were held on July 27, 2017.
Keel-related traditions from the times of wooden ships are said to bring luck to the ship during construction and to the captain and crew during her later life. They include placing a newly minted coin under the keel and constructing the ship over it, having the youngest apprentice place the coin, and when the ship is finished, presenting the owners with the oak block on which the keel is laid.
Arctech Helsinki Shipyard Inc. specializes in the building of special vessels for demanding conditions and routes. The shipyard was established in 1865 and ever since more than 500 ships have been built in the same location. The shipyard has delivered the majority of the icebreakers in operation around the world. Arctech employs approximately 1400 persons, of which about 600 are Arctech employees and the others work as subcontractors. The shipyard is located in the central area of Helsinki, Finland, and is part of Russia’s United Shipbuilding Corporation group.