The deployment of work vessels, signs and fairway traffic control

"We are based in Elburg and then the IJssel Delta is your backyard, so to speak," says Pieter de Jong, director/owner of ESB Group. "You then automatically get to deal with people who speak the same language. This feels like a home game."

But there are more factors that make maritime work in the IJssel Delta special. For example, for ESB Group, virtually all disciplines pass by - raising dikes, dredging, building locks - allowing it to use its fleet broadly. ESB was also involved in the project from the very beginning. "Often clients don't look for maritime support until the work is already half completed; now we were involved from the front. That also makes this project special." 

New ships with crew

As ESB Group deploys its working vessels with crew. These know the ship and know what is expected of them. The IJsseldelta even prompted the purchase of two new vessels. De Jong: "These had been in the pipeline for some time. This was the opportunity to tie the knot. We could now make them profitable right away." 

Fenna Gezina and Anne Mathea

The Fenna Gezina was built and launched in 2017. The multi-vessel is equipped with a crane, sput piles and heavy generators. In 2018, ESB Group deployed the vessel for the IJssel Delta and in particular to support piling works, sailing with concrete pumps and all common work around on the structure. The Anne Mathea is also a multi-vessel and deployable for the same work, but in a lighter version.

Thinking along

In the execution of the work, ESB Group's input was always appreciated. This pleased De Jong. "For example, some concrete pumps had to be transported by water. We then worked with the contractor to find the best way to do this. In joint consultation, it was decided to first place the pumps on the middle of the lock and to deploy a RORO system for that purpose, which allowed the pumps to easily drive on and off the vessels. And then comes the final factor that makes the job special. "We were one of the first to sail through the lock. That gives an incredible kick!"