Liebherr LS-C 60 crane to equip multipurpose vessel for operations in French Polynesia

Cargo and passengers, combined in one vessel. The LS-C 60 cylinder-luffing ship crane has been selected for the Mareva Nui II, designed for service in French Polynesia. Its compact footprint and low centre of gravity support vessel stability while preserving deck space for both cargo and onboard facilities. The cylinder-luffing mechanism reduces mechanical complexity by limiting the number of wire ropes and sheaves, which helps lower maintenance effort over time. With a lifting capacity of up to 40 tonnes, the crane handles a broad cargo range, from general supplies to heavier loads. A minimum radius of 3 metres allows the crane to efficiently service available storage space, even on compact installations.

A vessel designed around everyday transport needs

The Mareva Nui II is tailored to a region where maritime transport is part of daily life. It will serve island communities that depend on regular and reliable connections. Built by Handelskade at Hong Ha Shipyard in Vietnam, the vessel combines transport capacity with onboard accommodation in a single design. Features such as tween decks, folding hatch covers and dedicated living spaces support this integrated approach.

'This vessel is a vital link for TMTO's operations, enabling them to serve communities across the Tuamotu islands with greater efficiency and reliability,' said Menno van der Plas, Director of Handelskade. 'The crane enables TMTO to manage different types of cargo in a consistent and dependable way.'

Handelskade is delivering the vessel on a full turnkey basis, covering engineering, construction, sourcing and commissioning. This coordinated approach ensures that all systems are aligned from the outset.

As a result, the vessel can enter service fully equipped and ready for operation.

Engineered to match operating conditions

The operating profile of the Mareva Nui II requires equipment that performs consistently without adding operational burden. The LS-C 60 meets this requirement through a design that balances structural strength with efficient handling. Its stable and predictable performance supports safe operations, particularly where different onboard activities take place in parallel.

'This project underlines the importance of selecting equipment that aligns with both vessel design and operating conditions,' said Christian Voigtländer, Sales Manager of Liebherr-Rostock GmbH. 'The LS-C 60 provides a well-balanced solution for this type of vessel concept.'

As the Mareva Nui II approaches completion, it reflects a practical approach to serving dispersed island regions. By combining multiple transport functions within one vessel and integrating equipment that supports long-term operation, the project contributes to maintaining reliable connections across the archipelago.