New Livestock Carrier Boat to Transport 5,000 Calves per Week to Europe
A new, custom-built livestock carrier boat is set to revolutionize the transport of calves from Ireland to mainland Europe. Plans are underway for the boat, which will have an initial capacity of 5,000 calves per sailing, to begin operations in spring 2025.
This groundbreaking initiative is a joint venture between an Irish company and a Danish-based company. The ship is designed to transport calves from Ireland to key market destinations in mainland Europe, primarily the Netherlands, for approximately 10 weeks in the spring.
Journey Details: A Milk-Fed Voyage
The boat will depart from Waterford Port, sailing directly to a designated port in the Netherlands to unload the calves. The round trip, inclusive of loading, sailing, and unloading, is estimated to take about one week. A unique feature of this vessel is the installation of milk-feeding stations on each of its six decks. This will enable calves to be fed milk throughout their journey, ensuring their well-being during transport.
Addressing Market Demands
Industry experts believe this new method of transport is more expensive than the traditional truck and ferry method. However, it offers a significant advantage: calves can be continuously fed during the sea journey. This is crucial for meeting the requirements of the Dutch ‘Veal Forward’ Plan, which emphasizes animal welfare and standards in veal production.
While some industry sources have raised concerns about the feasibility of this new method, they also acknowledge its potential to alleviate pressure on ferry sailings and provide a crucial “release valve” for the export of Irish calves to key EU markets.
Projected Increase in Exports
In spring 2023, the number of Irish calves exported reached a peak of 15,000 per week. With the new boat’s capacity, this figure is projected to rise in the coming years.
A Shift in Logistics
Currently, most calves exported from Ireland travel by custom-built livestock lorries transported via ferry. Upon arrival in mainland Europe, calves are unloaded and housed in lairages for feeding before continuing their journey to their final destination.
The new boat will drastically change this process. Calves will board at the port in Ireland, be penned in groups, and continue to receive milk throughout the journey, arriving in Europe refreshed and well-nourished.
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