The SSCV Thialf is the most powerful floating crane in the world and is mainly used as a work ship for the erection of offshore structures. At 200 x 90 metres, the ship is one of the “big ones” of it class. The ship has been owned by the Dutch company Heerema Marine Contractors (HMC) since 1997. SSCV means Semi-Submersible Crane Vessel. The name Thialf is derived from “Thialfi”, the servant of the Germanic god of thunder Thor.

It was built in 1985 initially for around 1500 persons. Today, in the service of Heerema, there is room for around 740 persons.

There is a crew of around 300 on board for the installation work for the BorWin alpha platform. This includes around one-third hailing from Malaysia. Many of them have already worked for Heerema for many years. The work contracts usually provide for three months onboard followed by six weeks of holiday.

The Barge H-405

A barge is a floating container without any means of propulsion that is moved in a tugboat formation. Depending on the construction, it is used for a variety of overseas transport purposes. In contrast to inland water transport, they are towed across the sea, with only a few exceptions. The size and construction is adapted to the higher stress levels of its area of application. The H-405 barge is owned by Heerema Marine Contractors (HMC) and was built in China. Its maiden voyage started on November 21, 2008 from Shanghai and led to Rotterdam. The barge is 122 metres long, 36.6 metres wide and has a capacity of 12,500 tons.

Picture Gallery

Click a picture to see it at a greater resolution.