SSCV Thialf

SSCV Thialf is a huge semi-submersible crane vessel operated by the Netherlands-based Heerema Marine Contractors; it was the largest crane vessel in the world until the SSCV Sleipnir became the largest in 2019.

The ship was constructed in 1985 as DB-102 for McDermott International by Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.

In 1997, it was taken over by Heerema Marine Contractors after discontinuation of their joint venture with McDermott, HeereMac, and renamed Thialf.

For shallow waters, there are 12 Flipper Delta anchors at 22.5 t, with 2,500 meters (8,200 ft), 80 mm mooring wire.

This way the pontoons (with a draft of 13.6 m, 44 ft 7 in) are well submerged to reduce the effect of waves and swell.

Thialf and Sleipnir at Stavanger in May 2024. The German corvette Braunschweig in the foreground.