Heerema’s Mega Semi-Submersible Crane Vessel All Done

Sembcorp Marine has christened Sleipnir, Heerema Marine Contractors’ new semi-submersible crane vessel (SSCV) at its Tuas Boulevard Yard in Singapore.

Sleipnir, named after the Norse God Odin’s eight-legged stallion, will soon leave for sea trials after which it will be delivered to Heerema.

According to Sembcorp, two large cranes capable together lifting up to a 20,000t capacity make the vessel the world’s biggest SSCV capable of accommodating large next-generation turbines.

Additionally, Sleipnir is the first dual-fuel crane vessel, with engines running on Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

It can accommodate 400 persons and will be deployed for installing and removing jackets, topsides, foundations, moorings and other offshore structures.

“Sleipnir scores several firsts in the industry: It is the largest crane vessel yet built; it has the strongest pair of revolving cranes; and it’s also the world’s first crane vessel with dual-fuel engines running on MGO and LNG, dramatically reducing harmful emissions,” said Pieter Heerema, Chairman of the Board at Heerema Marine Contractors.

“The excellent cooperation between Heerema and Sembcorp Marine ensured that the project was executed smoothly, on budget and according to the best possible safety and quality standards.”

Heerema recently won a contract by Petrofac for Sleipnir, under which the vessel will transport and install the Alpha platform at the Hollandse Kust Zuid offshore wind farm zone.