SAL Heavy Lift doubles deck carrier capacity

Germany’s SAL Heavy Lift is set to enhance its semi-submersible deck carrier fleet by acquiring two vessels from South Korea’s Pan Ocean. The MV Sun Shine and MV Sun Rise are expected to join the fleet between October 2025 and April 2026, where they will be operated commercially within the JSI Alliance. This strategic move follows the long-term charter of two additional vessels earlier this year, marking a significant expansion in capacity for SAL Heavy Lift.

Strategic Expansion to Meet Growing Demand

The acquisition of the MV Sun Shine and MV Sun Rise will double SAL Heavy Lift’s capacity in the specialized segment of semi-submersible deck carriers. Matthieu Moerman, director of renewables and offshore at the JSI Alliance, emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating that the company has been attentive to client feedback during the operation of the Zhong Ren vessels. He noted a rising demand for additional tonnage and increased operational flexibility, which these new vessels will help address. With four vessels now in this segment, the JSI Alliance aims to provide more robust services and tailored solutions for large-scale and complex projects.

The MV Sun Shine, with a deadweight tonnage (dwt) of 17,113, was constructed in Korea in 2008, while the MV Sun Rise, weighing in at 24,629 dwt, was built in China in 2012. Upon delivery, both vessels will be renamed Luisa and Alma, in honor of the daughters of two colleagues from the Harren Group. Martin Harren, CEO of the Harren Group and SAL Heavy Lift, highlighted the significance of these vessels, stating that they will broaden the company’s service spectrum from smaller multipurpose vessels to large semi-submersible deck carriers. This expansion positions SAL Heavy Lift to cover the entire scope of the multipurpose and heavy-lift sector, providing clients with access to a highly capable fleet.

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Plans for Growth and Enhanced Services

To support this fleet expansion, SAL Heavy Lift is planning to bolster its sales, engineering, and operations teams in key locations including Hamburg, Rotterdam, and Singapore. The company operates approximately 75 multipurpose and super heavy-lift vessels in collaboration with Intermarine. Furthermore, through its partnership with Jumbo Shipping under the JSI Alliance, the combined fleet will encompass around 85 vessels, enhancing the capabilities and services offered to clients in the industry.