Press releases | 2026-03-16

The trio is complete

A next-generation dredger vessel is being equipped with a Liebherr LS-C 80 crane, a compact cylinder luffing ship crane designed for heavy maritime work in harsh offshore conditions
Liebherr supplies the crane together with a rail-mounted gantry structure, allowing it to travel along the vessel’s deck for flexible handling of equipment and tools during dredging operations
The fully assembled crane and gantry system were lifted onto the transport vessel MV Aura in Rostock using the powerful land-based heavy lift crane TCC 78000

As the third such crane installed on the vessel Seaway, the delivery of the LS-C 80 strengthens Liebherr’s record of reliable engineering with the ship crane on a gantry system built for demanding marine operations. Following the vessels Helios and Krios, it reinforces the operator’s continued trust in Liebherr’s expertise.

The gantry-mounted LS‑C 80 merges Liebherr’s advanced cylinder luffing technology with a rail traveling platform, allowing for precise crane positioning and efficient equipment movement across the vessel’s deck. Its robust construction and low centre of gravity make it well-suited for demanding maritime environments, while the flexible gantry system ensures versatile equipment distribution on board. For this project, the LS‑C 80 is configured to handle loads up to 50 tonnes with a reach of 26.5 meters, supporting reliable operations even in challenging conditions. The TCC 78000 was loading the assembled crane system in Rostock onto the transport vessel MV Aura, leveraging its 1,600-tonne lifting capacity to ensure safe mobilisation for transport to the shipyard in the Netherlands.

‘Delivering the LS‑C 80 on a Liebherr gantry shows how our engineering aligns with our customer’s operational needs,’ said Christian Voigtländer, Sales Manager at Liebherr-Rostock GmbH. ‘This solution supports efficient daily routines at sea and reinforces our commitment to safe, durable and practical maritime equipment.’

The dredger was launched at the Royal IHC yard in Krimpen aan den IJssel and is now undergoing final outfitting and testing. Designed with a 31,000 cubic metre hopper, an optimised hull and advanced automation, it will enter service in mid-2026 to deliver efficient manoeuvrability and environmental performance for large scale dredging projects. With Seaway now joining Helios and Krios, all operating with Liebherr ship cranes, the operator’s fleet gains reliable handling capability across its three newest vessels. This consistent approach strengthens long-term operational planning and underscores the trust placed in Liebherr’s engineered solutions. Seaway itself features a modern diesel-electric architecture, advanced automation and methanol readiness. The LS-C 80 integrates seamlessly into this forward-looking concept, providing durable components and maximum availability for daily offshore operations.

Supporting project milestones through reliable crane integration

Through coordinated technical collaboration, established engineering experience, and the support of Liebherr’s global service network, a system has been developed that meets high operational demand both now and in the future. The installation of the Liebherr LS‑C 80 supports the vessel’s ongoing commissioning to become fully operational as the ship advances through its harbour trials. Its precise control system provides repeatable movements for daily tasks, while features such as the centre mounted cabin, remote controllable operation, outside load indication and optical sensors for identifying obstacles along the gantry rails, help crews maintain safe workflows on deck.

Liebherr is proud and thankful to be part of such a project and to partner with the well experienced and professional Company Royal IHC.