Celebration Commemorating the City’s Role in the International Supply Chain Held on October 24, 2023
CAMDEN, NJ – Clipper Bulk Shipping Ltd, a renowned international shipping company, honored the City of Camden, New Jersey, by naming one of its state-of-the-art vessels, the “Norse Camden,” in recognition of Camden’s vital role in the global supply chain. This remarkable tribute underscores the deep and enduring partnership between Clipper Bulk Shipping and the South Jersey Port Corporation, as well as the significance of Camden as the company’s largest U.S. port of call.
For more than three decades, Clipper Bulk Shipping has been a steadfast partner in Camden City, importing steel from Northern Europe, with a focus on tinplate in coils, steel coils, and structural steel. This enduring relationship has not only been beneficial for trade and commerce but has also contributed to Camden’s reputation as a pivotal gateway in the international maritime industry.
Camden Mayor, Vic Carstarphen expressed his enthusiasm for this symbolic gesture, stating, “We are honored to have our city’s name associated with Clipper Bulk Shipping’s Norse Camden vessel. This event highlights the importance of Camden in the global supply chain and reinforces our commitment to fostering strong international partnerships.”
State Senator Nilsa Cruz Perez also emphasized the significance of this occasion, saying, “Clipper Bulk Shipping’s decision to name a ship after Camden showcases Camden’s integral role in international trade. It reflects the commitment of our local, state, and international partners to the prosperity and economic growth of our community and state.”
Camden County Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli, Jr. added, “This event is a testament to the dedication of our stakeholders, the City of Camden, South Jersey Port Corporation, Delaware River Stevedores, and Terminal Shipping, who have tirelessly worked together to strengthen our relationship with Clipper Bulk Shipping. We’re proud to be a part of this partnership.”
Clipper Bulk Shipping Ltd, a privately held company founded by Torben G. Jensen in 1972, continues to thrive under the leadership of Chairman Frank G. Jensen and Partner and Member of the Board Niels G. Jensen. Clipper Bulk Shipping is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, with operational offices in Houston, Hong Kong, and Cape Town and operates a fleet of approximately 90 vessels.
Andy Saporito, Executive Director & CEO of South Jersey Ports, highlighted the significance of the Norse Camden, stating, “The Norse vessels are a remarkable addition to the international supply chain and symbolize a more modern and eco-friendly approach to shipping which aligns with our sustainability and port modernization goals. We are proud to host the Norse Camden and are excited to continue our partnership with Clipper Bulk Shipping as we embark on a new chapter in our shared maritime history.”
NJ State Assemblyman Bill Moen expressed his excitement for the celebration of this milestone for Camden saying, “The Norse Camden is not only a testament to the ingenuity of maritime engineering but also a reflection of the global partnerships that drive our state’s economy. It’s inspiring to witness this ship’s journey from its construction in Japan to its vital role in our port in Camden, New Jersey.”
The Norse Camden is the fifth vessel in a series of eco-friendly ships, constructed primarily in Japan. This series, named after main steel ports worldwide, emphasizes the connection between global trade and the dedicated ports that facilitate it.
The official berthing of the Norse Camden at Balzano Terminal in Camden came on October 22, 2023, and was celebrated at Balzano Terminal in Camden on Tuesday, October 24. This event was a significant moment in the maritime history of Camden, celebrating its rich legacy and vibrant future in the global supply chain.
“South Jersey Port Corporation has been a great business partner for us for many, many years,” said Peter Svensson, senior vice president and head of Clipper Americas. He emphasized the incredible milestones achieved through this enduring partnership, “The millions of tons of steel that our ships have moved over three decades through Balzano Marine Terminal in Camden are a testament to the trust and reliability that defines our relationship. This is a great way to celebrate The Norse Camden and the tremendous growth and success we’ve made together.”
About the Norse Camden: The Norse Camden, a remarkable addition to Clipper Bulk Shipping’s fleet was meticulously constructed at the renowned Shikoku Dockyard Company Ltd. in Takamatsu, Japan. With a displacement of 48,617 metric tons and a deadweight of 40,020 metric tons at a draft of 35.52 feet in full load condition, the vessel boasts impressive dimensions. Her overall length extends to 600 feet, while her beam spans 99.7 feet, providing ample capacity for the transportation of cargo. Powered by a robust Mitsui-Man B&W engine producing 6,120 kW of power at 99 revolutions per minute, the Norse Camden cruises at a maximum speed of 14.2 knots. Launched on September 7, 2021, and delivered on January 17, 2022, this state-of-the-art vessel is registered in Singapore.
About the South Jersey Port Corporation: The South Jersey Port Corporation (SJPC) provides world-class facilities and beneficial services that support and accommodate the transportation of goods and commodities, both by water and land. It is the mission of the SJPC to foster regional economic development through revenue generation in a financially and environmentally sustainable manner to support facility, staffing, and infrastructure investment for the benefit of our Port District, including the cities of Camden, Paulsboro, and Salem, New Jersey.