This past weekend, Quinto Shipping B.V. from Zwijndrecht marked a major milestone with the christening of their new tanker mts. Quinto, a design by Concordia Damen. The vessel, outfitted by CCM3, signifies the family company’s transition from container transport to tanker operations.

For the Nanninga family – father Luit and sons Nick and Renko – this also marks the beginning of a new era after several turbulent years. Co-owner Nick Nanninga explains: “Many people see a vessel mainly as a ‘moneymaker’, but for Renko and me, this was about embracing a new challenge and rethinking our direction”.

The CDS Tanker 110 ultimately turned out to be the best fit for Quinto Shipping’s new strategy. “The ship combines low resistance and shallow draft with a larger cargo capacity than similar vessel types,” says brother Renko. “We were also pleasantly surprised by the spacious accommodation. With this tanker, we can continue sailing on the Rhine even during low water levels, and reach nearly any destination in Europe. That gives us a sense of operational reliability. Just as important: the vessel’s sailing profile makes our operations more environmentally friendly per ton of cargo transported.”

Dual piping system tailored to customer needs

The mts. Quinto will be operated for a German client who, from an early stage, requested the ability to transport two different cargoes simultaneously. And that was made possible. “At Quinto, we listen closely to our customers — that’s what we stand for as a shipping company,” says Nick. “In this case, we were even able to accommodate the customer’s wishes during the design and construction phases of the vessel, which was greatly appreciated.”

Collaboration and commitment

The partnership between Quinto Shipping and Concordia Damen has a long history. Founder Luit Nanninga already knew Concordia Damen CEO Chris Kornet from their days working together onboard. Now, sons Nick and Renko continue that relationship. Co-owner Renko Nanninga: “We experienced the entire construction process as very positive, both at Concordia’s hull yard and their office in Werkendam. No big promises, but true collaboration and clear agreements. And when challenges arose — as they always do — there was a genuine willingness to resolve them together.”

We wish the vessel and crew safe and successful voyages ahead.