SAL Heavy Lift launches first methanol-ready Orca class vessel (Video)

Germany-based maritime heavy lift and project cargo carrier SAL Heavy Lift has launched its first Orca-class heavy lift vessel at Wuhu Shipyard in China.

As disclosed, the ship MV Elise, which is the first out of five new Orca-class ships, was floated out at the end of July.

Back in September 2022, SAL Heavy Lift placed the order for Orca class ships. The ship measures 149.9 meters in length and has a capacity of 14,600 dwt.

The unit comes equipped with hybrid propulsion systems and fully electric cranes, with which the company wants to underscore its move towards completely climate-neutral maritime operations.

Furthermore, other features will include Ice class notation 1A, a Polar Code certification and the reduced design temperature of the hull and equipment to safely operate in cold conditions.

Two 800-ton Liebherr cranes are specifically designed for this ship type can handle cargo items weighting up to 1,600 tons in tandem.

The shipowner picked the hybrid propulsion system developed by Finnish technology company Wärtsilä to install on the Orca class fleet. The system will feature a variable-speed Wärtsilä 32 main engine capable of operating with methanol fuel. 

“The Orca class vessels are specifically designed to meet the stringent demands of heavy lift shipping while minimizing carbon emissions. This event not only celebrates the technical achievements but also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the shipping industry, where sustainability is at the forefront,” SAL Heavy Lift stated.

“As the MV Elise completes construction and gets her two massive 800 t cranes installed, we eagerly anticipate the rollout of her sister ships, each contributing to a greener future. We are looking forward to the next milestones and achievements to come.”

The ships are scheduled for delivery in 2025 and will be used mainly to support wind farm installations. The first two ships will be exclusively involved in the transportation of offshore wind turbine components in a long-term commitment with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy.

Two additional sister vessels will enter the heavy lift shipping market to serve the clients of the Jumbo-SAL-Alliance in the first half of 2025.