DNV Classes Largest Heavy-Lift Ship

The maritime division of Oslo-based certification foundation DNV has classed Dockwise’s new heavy-lift vessel, the Dockwise Vanguard. It is the first vessel in its class. The Vanguard will be able to lift and transport units of up to 110,000 tonnes. The maximum capacity of an existing vessel is 75,000 tonnes.

With its width of nearly 80 meters and length of 275 meters, this is the first semi-submersible heavy-lift vessel to be built in accordance with DNV’s new class rules for this type of ship, according to a foundation statement. The vessel has no forecastle, which allows it to carry cargo of ”unlimited” length. Its deckhouse is mainly positioned outside its hull, allowing it to carry 70-meter-wide cargoes.

“Not only were DNV’s existing rules essential for scaling up this unique semisubmersible heavy lift vessel concept, but DNV’s risk assessment capabilities were also key to meeting all the SOLAS requirements for this unconventional design,” Torgeir Sterri, DNV’s regional manager for Central Europe, said in a statement.

The vessel is being built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in Korea. Its keel will be laid in December and the vessel is due to be delivered in October 2012, when its first cargo will be ready to be transported from Southeast Asia to Brazil.

Photo shows Dockwise artist rendering of the semi-submersible heavy-lift Vanguard, which will be able to lift and transport cargoes weighing up to 110,000 tonnes. Courtesy of DNV.