Mar 1, 2003 12:00 PM

Matson Navigation Co Inc currently has two new 712-foot diesel-powered containerships under construction at Kaverner Philadelphia Shipyard. Construction of the first vessel, the MV Manukai, is well underway, with delivery scheduled for late summer 2003. The second vessel is slated for delivery in 2004.

To provide a venue that can be easily accessed by anyone interested in tracking the progress of the construction, Matson has added to its web site a new section entitled, “Birth of a Ship.” This site is designed not only to provide progress reports, but also to serve as an educational public relations vehicle about ships and Matson's fleet in particular.

The site will be updated as construction milestones occur. Other sections will be introduced early in 2003.