OSM Thome marks successful delivery of ARANOA

OSM Thome has this week announced the successful completion and delivery of ARANOA, a new-generation passenger and cargo vessel built at Huanghai Shipyard in China for Aranui Cruises. 

The vessel was officially delivered to her owner at end-September, marking the successful completion of an extensive newbuilding programme supported by OSM Thome’s on-site project supervision team. 

Designed specifically for passenger and cargo operations across the remote islands of French Polynesia, ARANOA combines the capabilities of a modern passenger vessel with the operational flexibility required to serve isolated island communities. 

The vessel is designed to transport passengers together with a wide range of cargo, providing an important maritime connection between the islands while offering a high standard of comfort and onboard experience. 

From a technical perspective, ARANOA features a diesel-electric propulsion plant with four diesel generator sets, twin SCHOTTEL azimuth propulsion units and a bow thruster, providing enhanced manoeuvrability and operational flexibility. 

The vessel is also equipped with dynamic positioning capability, fin stabilizers and an anti-heeling system, together with integrated automation and power-management systems. 

Classed by Bureau Veritas for unrestricted navigation as a passenger ship, ARANOA incorporates a comprehensive range of safety, environmental and comfort technologies, including high-pressure water-mist fire protection, ballast water management, wastewater treatment, advanced HVAC systems, and enhanced noise and vibration standards for passengers and crew. 

Together, these features enable ARANOA to combine safe and efficient maritime operations with the level of comfort expected from a modern passenger vessel. 

Throughout the construction, commissioning and sea-trial phases, OSM Thome provided dedicated site supervision and technical coordination, working closely with the Owner, shipyard, classification society, designers, equipment manufacturers and other project stakeholders. 

The project progressed through construction, harbour commissioning, sea trials, final inspections and close-out activities, with continuous focus on safety, quality, technical compliance and successful completion of the vessel.