The Boka Vanguard is already the largest semi-submersible heavy transport vessel in the world. But recently this groundbreaking vessel was made even bigger.
With a length of 275 metres and an “original” width of 70 metres, a widening of 10 meters does not sound all that impressive. To put the dimensions of the unique transport vessel into perspective a bit: one outrigger is comparable to the dimensions of a three-story house.
This feat of engineering makes it possible to transport future cargoes more than 75 metres wide.
Also read: 2024 was record-breaking year for Boskalis
Boka Vanguard
The Boka Vanguard was built in 2012 by Hyundai Heavy Industries and delivered in early 2013. It was originally named Dockwise Vanguard. The company Dockwise was acquired by offshore contractor Boskalis in 2013. The vessel is 275 metres long and sails under the flag of Curaçao. Its depth is 15.50 metres, but when submerged, this becomes 31 metres.
With its bridge on starboard side, cargo can extend beyond the vessel’s bow. Notable cargo carried by the vessel includes the semi-submersible platform Jack/St. Malo, the FPSO Goliat, Heerema’s crane vessel Hermod, the cruise ship Carnival Vista and very recently, the Fremantle Highway (renamed Floor).
Picture by Boskalis.
Also read: Boka Vanguard to transport Fremantle Highway to China
