Rd77: Have a look at this PDF, the bow shape is an Ax-Bow developed ny NKK. So far it was only used on bulkers. STAR SPIRIT is the first reefer with this design.

http://www.jfe-steel.co.jp/archives/en/nkk_giho/86/pdf/86_10.pdf

I see she's from Shikoku Dockyard in Japan. Total of four ships ordered. A lot of these Japanese yards are experimenting with new bow shapes. Funny enough, a lot of those seem to be aimed at reducing wind resistance (Kyokuyo yard's bows for example) rather than changing the underwater behaviour. I wonder if STAR SPIRIT's bow is also one of these cases. Up until well above the waterline, the bow has a conventional shape. Only then does it start to look different. I am somewhat reminded of the bows of the IOWA-class battleships from WW2 in fact!

Capt.Ted, those boxes hurt your eyes (mine too) but it is this bow that hurts my eyes the most! The ugliest ship's bow I've ever seen! And for what reason! It doesn't sail 1 mile faster than the old and real reefers. Ugly boxboat!

Great shot Boris,,, As old reefer sailor it is always nice to see a ship with lines,,also when those boxes hurt my eyes !! :-)

Hi Jan, I am glad if I can help you with the images. ;-)

Excellent photo, Boris. It really highlights the special Ax-bow design of the ship. Great to see that, after all, a few conventional reefer ships are still being built. A sister ship, to be named STAR COURAGE is due in April. I find this ship to noteworthy, i added an extra page with some photos (including yours) to our Newsletter this week :-)