SAL Heavy’s third methanol-ready Orca class vessel hits the water (Video)

Germany’s maritime heavy lift and project cargo carrier SAL Heavy Lift has celebrated the launch of its third methanol-ready 14,600 dwt Orca class multipurpose vessel.

MV Patricia, the third of five Orca class vessels, was launched on December 14 at Wuhu Shipyard in China.

To remind, SAL Heavy Lift, part of the Harren Group, in cooperation with its joint-venture partner, Netherlands-based Jumbo Shipping placed an order for five heavy lift ships in 2022.

Each ship, classed by DNV, features a length of 149.9 meters, and a width of 27.2 meters. As reported earlier, the Orca class vessels are specifically designed to meet the “rigorous demands” of heavy lift shipping while reducing carbon emissions.

The new fleet will be equipped with hybrid propulsion systems and 800-ton fully electric cranes, underscoring the move towards climate-neutral operations. The ships will also have a shore power solution allowing them to connect to the local power grid.

The engine package will be provided by Wärtsilä, featuring the company’s 32 main engines capable of operating with methanol fuel. 

The first two units from the Orca class, Elise and Frida, were launched in July and October this year. They will reportedly be ‘exclusively involved’ in the transportation of offshore wind turbine components in a long-term commitment with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy.

The remaining units – Patricia, Carlotta, and Vera – are expected to join SAL Heavy Lift in 2025.