Merchant Ships

A no-frills workhorse of the stars, the Lone Trader is the simplest and most affordable entry into interstellar commerce. Built on a compact 100 dT hull with Jump-1 and Thrust-1, it is a staple of early FTL economies and frontier trade routes. Designed for minimal crew requirements, it can technically be operated by a single skilled individual, though most owners prefer a two-person team of pilot/astrogator and engineer. Its 60 dT cargo hold, equipped with a crane and loading belt, allows efficient handling of freight, though many traders remove the crane to gain an extra 3 dT of cargo space. While its modest performance limits its range, the Lone Trader remains a reliable choice for those seeking independence and a foothold in interstellar commerce.

Introducing the LDY 100-Catamaran, a versatile 100 dTon cargo ship designed by Liberty Dock Yards in the classical catamaran style. Engineered to rival the Gozanti C, this smaller and more cost-effective alternative boasts a Jump-3 drive, allowing for swift interstellar travel. The LDY-100 stands out with its innovative feature of externally attachable containers, providing an additional 32 dTons of cargo space. While its internal cargo capacity may be more modest, the reduced crew requirements make it an economical choice for both acquisition and operation. Offering comparable speed and external cargo capabilities to its larger counterpart, the LDY 100-Catamaran presents a competitive solution for traders, smugglers, and entrepreneurs seeking efficiency and affordability in their spacefaring ventures.

The Beowulf class Free Trader, a 200 dTon vessel, a design with its origins form the days of the Galactic Imperium. As a versatile interstellar merchant ship, it efficiently transports cargo and passengers across space lanes. Equipped with a Jump-2 drive and a Thrust-1 Manoeuvrer drive, it ensures swift travel over vast distances. Highly adaptable to varying mission needs, its configurations may impact cargo or passenger capacity and armament. With accommodation for 10 state rooms and 20 low berths, it prioritizes comfort and safety, although features can vary based on configuration. Operating unarmed in safer space lanes, it boasts a cargo capacity of 82 tons. In more perilous regions, it can be equipped with 2 turrets, typically mounted as a Dorsal and Ventral turret, albeit at the expense of cargo or passenger space. Featuring a streamlined hull with scoops and intakes, it facilitates frontier refuelling, ensuring versatility in its journeys. Additionally, it offers docking space for an Air/Raft, enhancing its utility for planetary excursions.

The Empress Marava-Class Far Trader is a versatile 200 dT merchant vessel known for its ability to reach distant and often risky trade routes. With a Thrust-1 drive and Jump-2 capability, it is designed for long-haul commerce, capable of operating beyond the core trade lanes. Equipped with two double beam laser turrets, it has enough firepower to deter opportunistic threats while maintaining its primary focus on trade. The ship offers 10 staterooms and 4 low berths, accommodating both crew and passengers, making it well-suited for mixed cargo and transport operations. Its streamlined hull features a frontal docking space for an air/raft, while port and starboard cargo airlocks, along with a loading belt, provide efficient access to its 60 dT cargo bay. A favorite among independent traders and frontier merchants, the Empress Marava is a reliable choice for those seeking profit in the far reaches of known space.

Introducing the TK-322 Hauler, a 200 dT vessel designed by the renowned Vespian engineers for versatile cargo transport and fuel delivery across the stars. The TK-322 is equipped with a Jump-3 drive and a Thrust-2 maneuver drive, offering solid interstellar capabilities. Although the ship is fitted with a Jump-3 drive, its fuel reserves allow for Jump-2 by default. When configured as a fuel hauler, it can siphon fuel from the cargo tanks to achieve a full Jump-3. For defense, the TK-322 is equipped with a civilian-grade sensor suite and two double laser turrets, prioritizing safety and security. It features three staterooms, accommodating up to six crew members or passengers, and includes a small commons area for comfort during voyages. The cargo bay can carry either 105 dT of cargo or 100 dT of fuel or liquid, embodying adaptability and practicality. Whether transporting goods or delivering vital fuel supplies, the TK-322 Hauler reflects the renowned craftsmanship and reliability of Vespian engineering.

The FE-426 Freighter is a 200 dT starship from the renowned Vespian Shipyards Consortium (VSC), built for versatility and reliability. With Thrust-6 and Jump-4 capabilities, it offers excellent speed and range. Armed with two double turrets: one mounted ventrally and another chin-mounted, and equipped with military-grade sensors, it provides robust self-defense. The interior includes four staterooms with bunk beds and a small commons area, providing comfortable accommodations for up to eight crew members. with 26 dT of cargo space, the freighter features a front loading ramp for fast and efficient cargo handling. Two airlocks on either side of the ship and a docking clamp for an auxiliary small craft at the rear ensure versatile docking options. the FE-426 is a solid choice for independent operators.

Presenting the Gozanti C, a remarkable 275 dTon Freighter crafted by Illume Aerospace Engineering (IAE). Evolving from the triumph of its predecessor, the Gozanti A, the Gozanti C epitomizes IAE's dedication to customer feedback. With an expanded frame, this freighter offers substantially increased internal cargo capacity while ensuring optimal comfort for transporting crew or passengers. Introducing a new external cargo feature, the Gozanti C accommodates 8 attachable containers (32 dTon), enhancing its versatility. Sporting a Jump-3 drive and twice the manoeuvring power in its engines compared to the Gozanti A, the C ensures efficient interstellar travel. Notably, it now boasts two pop-up quad laser turrets, fortifying its defences and providing enhanced protection for both cargo and crew. The Gozanti C stands as a testament to IAE's commitment to innovation and client satisfaction.

The A2L Calypso-Class Far Trader is a 300 dT long-range merchant vessel designed for greater capacity and performance than its predecessor, the Empress Marava. With Thrust-2 and Jump-2 capability, it offers improved mobility, allowing traders to reach more lucrative and distant markets while maintaining the reliability expected of a far trader. Its expanded hull accommodates 12 staterooms and 6 low berths, making it well-suited for passenger transport alongside cargo operations. Armed with three triple turrets—mounting beam lasers and sandcasters—the Calypso provides a stronger defensive profile, ensuring greater survivability in uncertain regions. A 90 dT cargo bay, complemented by efficient loading access, allows for versatile freight handling, while its extended frame provides enhanced stability and operational endurance. A favored choice among merchants seeking a balance of cargo capacity, defensive capability, and improved maneuverability, the Calypso-Class Far Trader is well-equipped to handle the demands of interstellar commerce.

The Type R Subsidized Merchant, commonly known as the Fat Trader, is a dependable 400 dT cargo vessel designed to support commercial operations across clusters of worlds. As a larger counterpart to the Free Trader, it offers a significantly expanded cargo capacity, with a 130 dT bay capable of handling diverse freight. Its Thrust-1 and Jump-2 capability make it well-suited for stable trade routes, efficiently bridging economic hubs and frontier markets alike. Designed for flexibility, the Type R features 20 staterooms and 10 low berths, accommodating both crew and passengers, while a dedicated docking space for a 20 dT launch provides additional utility for short-range transport and cargo transfers. Though typically operated by a five-person crew—pilot, engineer, astrogator, and a steward if carrying commercial passengers—it can be armed with defensive turrets if necessary. While not the fastest or most heavily armed vessel, the Sub Merchant’s efficiency and spacious design have cemented its reputation as a staple of interstellar commerce, ensuring that goods, passengers, and profits continue to flow smoothly across the stars.

The Taylander-Class is a 400 dT ship from Loanor-Sorosub. Equipped with Jump-4 and Thrust-6 capabilities, it offers long-range travel and great maneuverability. The ship features a streamlined hull and advanced armor plating for durability, featuring two airlocks and two hardpoints. Its powerplant is pre-configured for weapon installations, offering customization based on the buyer's preferences. standard the Taylander has 108 dT of cargo space. When armed this capacity is reduced, with the exact reduction dependent on weapon choice. It includes four staterooms for up to 8 crew members. For luxury transport, the Taylander can be reconfigured to include 10 high-end staterooms, with luxurious common areas including entertainment systems, a gourmet dining facility for 10, a swimming pool, and a bar. This version accommodates 10-20 passengers, with a 10 dT cargo hold. The Taylander’s adaptable design ensures it meets a wide range of needs, from practical cargo transport to opulent travel experiences.

Unveiling the Gozanti E, the latest gem in Illume Aerospace Engineering's (IAE) freighter line-up. This 600 dTon marvel redefines the standards for interstellar transport. Boasting formidable upgrades, the Gozanti E features reinforced armour surpassing its predecessor, the C, and introduces three fully automated dual laser turrets for enhanced defensive capabilities. With a cutting-edge Jump-4 drive and more efficient manoeuvrer drives, this freighter exemplifies IAE's commitment to technological advancement. The reconfigured hull maximizes internal cargo space, ensuring a comfortable balance between freight capacity and accommodation. Notably, the external cargo capacity has been expanded, accommodating 30 containers or 120 dTon of additional cargo. The Gozanti E, though positioned at a premium price point, promises an unparalleled return on investment, making it a top choice for those seeking optimal performance and profitability in the vast expanse of the galaxy.

The Magnadon-Class Mk.II Provincial Merchant is a reliable 1000 dT cargo vessel engineered for efficient trade and transport With a Thrust-1 drive and Jump-2 capability, it is optimized for short to medium-range trips, focusing on dependable cargo transport. Equipped with two double sandblaster turrets, it provides adequate defense against light threats while operating in less secure areas. Offering over 600 dT of cargo space, the Magnadon-Class Mk.II has earned a reputation for its high profitability, with many owners seeing returns of over 130 percent on their investment, making it a smart choice for trade ventures. The ship features five staterooms for its eight-person crew, ensuring comfort during long hauls. Additionally, it includes docking space for a 20 dT launch, enhancing its versatility for transporting personnel and supplies. For those seeking a dependable and profitable merchant vessel for provincial trade routes, the Magnadon-Class stands out as an excellent choice.

A fortress among freighters, the Coveter-Class Armored Merchant is a heavily reinforced cargo vessel designed for operations in lawless and high-risk regions. With Jump-3 and Thrust-1, it prioritizes resilience over speed, relying on its bonded superdense armor and military-grade sensors to survive where standard haulers would fall prey to raiders. Its armament of four double beam laser turrets and six triple missile rack turrets ensures that any would-be attacker thinks twice before engaging. The 1,000 dT hull houses 18 staterooms and 20 low berths, accommodating its 20 crew members and some passengers. With 298 dT of cargo space, it remains a practical choice for transporting valuable goods through dangerous territories. A docking bay for a slow pinnace adds further versatility, enabling surface landings and offloading operations in remote locations. Primarily developed for deployment in pirate-prone frontier regions, the Coveter-Class has found use among military fleets, mercenary companies, large corporations and merchant guilds, which appreciate its durability and ability to safeguard valuable resources in contested space.

The Treasure Ship is less a vessel and more a flying fortress, built to transport vast wealth across the stars under heavy guard. Its bulky hull is wrapped in thick armor The ship barely qualifies as streamlined, relying on overworked grav-plates and vestigial lifting surfaces to keep it from plummeting outright. A reinforced prow grants access to a cavernous cargo bay with over 300 tons of unsecured space, but the true heart of the ship is its vault—an impregnable chamber engineered to withstand direct starship-grade weaponry. Flying a Treasure Ship is like flying a bank. Every system is designed for security, from biometric locks and psionic shielding to a vault encryption system that ties access to jump-space coordinates and genetic markers. Lavish staterooms exist to impress, but the crew quarters are cramped, patrolled by ever-watchful security teams. Every pirate, warlord, and criminal syndicate sees a Treasure Ship as a prize, making every voyage a paranoid test of vigilance.