Giant Chinese vessel raises eyebrows in Vanuatu

A major wharf extension for the northern Vanuatu island of Santo is expected to be completed in three years.

Wayne Huang of Shanghai Construction Group made the assurance as a giant vessel and barges packed with equipment and material arrived in Luganville for the project.

The Luganville Wharf is to be extended by 80 metres.

The 230 metre long vessel, the Zhenhua 22, raised eyebrows in the Santo town when it submerged to allow the barges to float ashore over the weekend.

Mr Huang says the Zhenhua is one of very few in the world and it was its first operation in the Pacific.