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Biggest Crane Ship In the World
Constructed in 2019 by Sembcorp Marine in Singapore, SSCV Sleipnir is considered the biggest crane ship in the world.
It is owned and operated by Heerema Marine Contractors and has 2 revolving cranes with a lifting capacity of 10,000 tonnes each, totalling 20,000 tonnes when both cranes are operated alongside each other.

The largest crane vessel is like a massive platform that has 8 columns, four on each side and one pontoon per side.
Conventional SSCVs have bigger columns under cranes to offer support but it leads to severe pitching in rough waters whereas SSCV Sleipnir has symmetrical columns, providing for calmer motions during rough weather conditions at sea.
Additionally, the columns are round to decrease wave impact and the pontoons are streamlined to offer drag reduction.
The vesselโs LNG storage and ballast tanks are present in the 8 columns, each 23.7 m high with a staircase linking the deck with the pontoon below.
Major characteristics of the biggest crane ship
- Length: 220 m
- Beam: 102 m
- Draft: 12 to 32 m
- Displacement: Approximately 273,700 tonnes
The crane ship is driven by 12 dual-fuel engines and 8 Wartsile azimuth thrusters, allowing it to attain a speed of 10 knots.
The crane ship has many records to its name such as lifting the 15,000-ton topsides module for the Leviathan platform and the removal of an 8100-ton jacket from the Jotun-B platform in the North Sea.
It has a 12-point mooring system which utilises Stevpris Mk-6 anchors to keep the ship in place while conducting lifting operations.ย
It also has a helipad designed for an AgustaWestland EH101 or Sikorsky S-92.
The crane ship can accommodate 400 people, in its 5 executive, 45 single and 175 double cabins.ย
As a safety measure, the vessel has 9 Harding FF1200 freefall lifeboat systems, including davits; and every lifeboat can accommodate 70 people.
You might also like to read-
- 10 Massive Crane Ships Operating at the Sea
- SSCV Thialf : Unbelievably Big Crane Ship
- 14 Practical Tips For Maintenance And Operation Of Cargo Crane On Ships
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
About Author
Zahra is an alumna of Miranda House, University of Delhi. She is an avid writer, possessing immaculate research and editing skills. Author of several academic papers, she has also worked as a freelance writer, producing many technical, creative and marketing pieces. A true aesthete at heart, she loves books a little more than anything else.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
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