The construction of heavy-lift multipurpose vessels ordered by SAL Heavy Lift at the Wuhu Shipyard in China. The company has recently confirmed the order for the fifth Orca Class heavy-lift MPP, to be named Vera and delivered in mid-2025. 

In the meantime, Wuhu Shipyard is progressing with the construction of the first two vessels in the series. The vessels will be equipped with dual-fuel engines and can be run on methanol as an alternative fuel. As soon as green methanol becomes available in key ports, the Jumbo-SAL-Alliance will be able to offer their customers carbon-neutral transport solutions following the sustainability goals of the Harren Group.

The ship has a specially designed hull shape that maximizes its efficiency. Additionally, it has an advanced engine and propulsion system with a booster function that allows for a hybrid setup with a wide range of economic speed settings. This system also provides redundancy and allows the ship to reach a maximum speed of approximately 18.5 knots.

Heavy-lift specialists

The ships are 149.9m x 27.2m with a capacity of 14,600 dwt. They have a single, box-shaped cargo hold with the largest dimensions in their class. Hatch covers can hold 10 t/m² for heavy deck cargoes. The ships can accommodate over-height cargo and sail with open hatch covers up to full scantling draft.

The vessels will feature Ice class notation 1A, a Polar Code certification and the reduced design temperature of the hull and equipment allow the ships to safely operate in cold conditions as well.

The heavy lifting will be done by two 800-ton all-electric Liebherr cranes onboard each vessel. In its recent update, Liebherr Maritime Cranes showed off the progress they are making in the assembly of the first of ten heavy lifters.

The company said that this all-electric LS 800 E is the latest innovation in its heavy lift ship crane portfolio. They will contribute to the efficiency and innovation of the ORCA fleet.