Some things just can’t be packed in a box. Think wind turbines, defence vessels, superyacht and entire bridge sections. When your cargo is too big, too valuable or too complex for conventional shipping methods, that’s where heavy lift vessels come in.
At Peters & May, we like to think of these ships as the problem-solvers of the sea. Purpose-built to carry oversized, high-stakes cargo that demands precision, reliability, and expert planning. And in the world of offshore logistics and project cargo transport, that’s not just useful – it’s essential.
What is a Heavy Lift Vessel?
Heavy lift vessels, also known as multi-purpose vessels (MPVs), are designed not just to carry oversized, heavy cargo, but also to handle a wide variety of project and general cargo types that other ships can’t like colossal structures such as jack-up rigs, bridge sections and superyachts. Equipped with high-capacity cranes, reinforced decks and the ability to submerge, they can load, carry, and discharge cargo weighing hundreds or even thousands of tonnes. They’re effectively floating supply bases for complex cargo operations.
Why Use One?
- You’ll Save Time (and Stress)
No disassembly. No fiddly rebuilds at the destination. Heavy lift vessels can transport fully assembled structures like bridges or cranes, and for marine cargo, they help reduce engine wear by eliminating the need for long journeys
- Designed for Heavy Loads
Thanks to their versatile deck configurations and deeper draft, heavy lift vessels can safely carry exceptionally heavy loads that other ships simply can’t handle making them ideal for deep-water ports or offshore locations.
- Less equipment, Less Cost
You don’t need to worry about hiring cranes at the port or even entering the port because these vessels can be independent– saving money and minimising delays.
- More Sustainable
Fewer loading ports, fewer road miles, and more direct routes can help reduce emissions—keeping your cargo (and your conscience) cleaner.
A Case in Point: Two Minehunters, One Ship, Zero Margin for Error
In 2022, our Commercial Marine Transport (CMT) team pulled off a project cargo transportation of two 620-tonne Minehunters from Belgium to Pakistan, which involved moving over 1,200 tonnes on a single heavy lift ship—the MV UHL Fame.
“It’s one thing to move a vessel of this size but it’s quite a rare and complex challenge to move two… at once,” said Robert Blades, our Global Commercial Sales Manager.
The move needed:
- 1.35 kilometres of lashing cable
- 16 giant slings
- Reinforced deck platforms
Thanks to expert handling from our experienced loadmasters, the cargo was safely loaded and delivered. High-value projects like this reinforce Peters & May as the global leaders in heavy lift shipping.
Precision Planning for Complex Cargo
At Peters & May, we treat every heavy lift move like a custom project. That’s why we offer:
- Full project cargo assessments
- Engineering and stowage plans
- Survey and permit management
- Global route optimisation
- Customs and regulatory support
From floating infrastructures in offshore logistics to high-value defence vessels requiring project cargo transport, we’ve seen and moved it all!
Heavy Lift Shipping: The Smart Choice for Project Cargo Transport
When your cargo weighs hundreds of tonnes, you can’t afford to take any chances. Heavy lift vessels are not just the safe choice for project cargo transport; they’re the clever one. They simplify complex logistics, cut down on risk, and get your project delivered faster and cleaner. Whether you’re planning to move the next floating solar farm or delivering a luxury yacht to a remote island—get in touch with our Commercial Marine Transport team.
Tel: +44 (0)2380 480 440
Email: commercial@petersandmay.com
