Chinese shipbuilder Wuhu Shipyard has successfully launched Frida, the second 14,600 dwt Orca class multipurpose vessel designed for methanol readiness, on October 31, 2024. The ship was built for Germany’s maritime heavy lift and project cargo carrier SAL Heavy Lift, part of the Harren Group and the JSI Alliance.
Ordered in 2022, the Frida is the second of five planned vessels in the Orca class series. This fleet, developed in collaboration with joint-venture partner Jumbo Shipping of the Netherlands, is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of heavy lift shipping while prioritizing reduced carbon emissions. Classed by DNV, each vessel measures 149.9 meters in length and 27.2 meters in width.
The Orca class ships incorporate hybrid propulsion systems and are equipped with 800-ton fully electric cranes, advancing climate-neutral operation capabilities. They also include shore power solutions for connecting to local power grids, further minimizing their environmental impact. The propulsion system is powered by Wärtsilä’s 32 main engines, capable of operating on methanol fuel.
Frida’s predecessor, Elise, was launched in late July 2024 and is slated for delivery by the end of this year, while Frida is set for delivery in January 2025, according to VesselsValue data. Both vessels will initially be dedicated to transporting offshore wind turbine components under a long-term contract with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy.
The remaining three vessels—Patricia, Carlotta, and Vera—are under various stages of construction and are expected to join SAL Heavy Lift’s fleet throughout 2025.
