New US$1 billion crane vessel for Heerema

The Advisory Board of Netherlands-based Heerema Marine Contractors has decided to proceed with the design of a new heavy lift crane vessel. HMC estimates the investment at US$1 billion, financed from internal funds, banks and private equity.

The new vessel will be about 220 x 88 m and, at the time of writing, the lift capacity of the cranes was still to be determined, “but will at least be comparable to the capacity of the Thialf. The dual crane capacity of Thialf, the largest crane vessel in the world and part of HMC's fleet, is 14,200 tons.”

Design work, which will be fast tracked, will begin immediately, according to HMC. Construction will be put to tender and, HMC said, “will likely be [at a shipyard] in Korea or China.”

John Reed, HMC CEO, commented on the new crane vessel, “Heerema Marine Contractors is known for its strong and successful position as offshore construction contractor. A new generation, deepwater construction vessel is needed to meet the demands of the national and international oil companies. Market developments and needs from customers, as well as our current market position are strong drivers behind the decision to proceed with the design of a new vessel.”

The new crane vessel will join the existing fleet of Thialf, Hermod and Balder, used to transport, install and remove all types of offshore facilities around the world.