SAL doubles down: five more Orca-class heavylifters to be built in China
German heavy-lift specialist SAL Heavy Lift signs MoU with Wuhu Shipyard for five additional 14,600 dwt multipurpose.
German maritime operator SAL Heavy Lift has taken a significant step to expand its fleet by signing a memorandum of understanding with China’s Wuhu Shipyard for five additional Orca-class heavylift vessels. The agreement, covering ships with a capacity of 14,600 deadweight tonnes each, could bring the total number of vessels under the collaboration to 10 if finalized into firm contracts.
SAL Heavy Lift, a subsidiary of the Harren Group, initially commissioned four Orca-class ships at Wuhu Shipyard in 2022, with two additional options. One of these options was exercised in late 2023, increasing the firm orders to five vessels. So far, three of these ships—Elise, Frida, and Patricia—have been delivered. The most recent, Patricia, was handed over in June and immediately deployed to transport wind energy equipment from Asia to Europe for Vestas.
Orca-class vessels: engineered for heavy and renewable cargo
The Orca-class ships are designed to meet the demands of the offshore wind, project cargo, and industrial equipment sectors. Each vessel measures around 150 metres in length and features a single expansive cargo hold, along with two heavylift cranes capable of lifting 1,600 tonnes when used in tandem. This setup enables the transport of oversized cargo, such as wind turbine components and industrial machinery.
The design also incorporates hybrid power systems and advanced energy management to enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Additionally, the vessels are equipped with provisions for future methanol propulsion, supporting the maritime industry’s shift toward decarbonization.
Expansion driven by market demand and strategic partnerships
The decision to build more Orca-class vessels reflects growing demand for heavylift capacity, particularly in the renewable energy sector. SAL Heavy Lift, as part of the Jumbo-SAL-Intermarine alliance, currently operates over 50 vessels specializing in project cargo, energy, and infrastructure trades.
The partnership with Wuhu Shipyard underscores the shipyard’s role in SAL’s fleet expansion strategy. With three of the five previously ordered vessels already in service, the Chinese yard has demonstrated its capability to deliver high-specification heavylift ships efficiently.
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