Kyokuyo's last big event in 2005 was the naming and delivery of S458, 12,000tdw multi-purpose cargo carrier ordered by Swiss company SCL. Since the ship was the last-born of the series, we received 12 guests from the ship-owning company, including Mr. Hasjurg Grunder, Managing Director of Enzian Shipping AG.

Blessed by fine weather, the ceremonies were smoothly conducted on December 20 at our shipyard. Ms. Nicole, fiancée of Mr. Tim Schnoor, Executive Assistant of the owner, acted as Godmother of the vessel and named her "SAFMARINE LEMAN".

It was quite impressive that everything was finished in an exceptionally happy and relaxed mood. Well, I knew a secret about how that friendly atmosphere had been created - it was dinner party held on the previous day!

Our vice president, Mr. Ochi, who happened to know that Mr. Grunder shares with him the same age and the same love of playing pop music, reserved a live spot called "Route 66" in Shimonoseki. After enjoying dinner and lovely night view over Kanmon Channel, when the party arrived at Route 66 around 9, they were welcomed by live performance of the Beatles music - and It was just barely the start of a long, exciting night! The photo on left shows the scene where two gentlemen were finally sharing the same stage, too.

We thank every and all SCL people to give us opportunity to build 4 ships. It was a challenging and satisfying work for us.

[2006/01/15]