Auerbach Schifffahrt's four recently acquired multipurpose (MPP) vessels are practically identical, but one is being financed in a unique way.

The 12,600-dwt Louise Auerbach (built 2007) is a pilot crowdfunding venture — the first of its kind in Germany.

“We felt it was important these days to look at alternative funding opportunities,” says Auerbach managing director Lucius Bunk.