With Martin Harren Aboard MV Patricia: SAL’s Future Fleet Explained

At the christening of MV Patricia in Rostock, Luke King steps aboard SAL’s newest Orca Class vessel for a conversation with Dr. Martin Harren, owner of SAL and the Harren Group.

Patricia is the third vessel in SAL’s new Orca Class programme. Named after Patricia Rüf of Liebherr, she was christened at Liebherr’s maritime crane facility, reflecting a relationship between the two companies that Martin says stretches back 25 years.

On deck, Martin explains what makes this ship noteworthy: two cranes capable of lifting up to 1,600 tonnes together, a top speed of 19 knots, and a propulsion arrangement designed to let her operate efficiently at lower speeds. He also talks about the details that matter to the crew, from the accommodation to the onboard gym and pool.

We discuss why Patricia will trade commercially for SAL while her first two sister ships entered long-term charters, where the remaining Orca Class vessels stand, and why Martin believes a ship built for heavy cargo can remain useful as energy markets change.

🎥 Would you like Project Cargo Professionals to cover your next heavy lift event, vessel christening or product launch? We can come on site, create story-led video content to capture the occasion, and share it with a global project cargo audience.

📩 To discuss coverage, email Luke@prospectcomms.co.uk