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'Seawise Giant' - The Colossal Supertanker of the Seas

Imagine a ship so colossal that dwarfs even the tallest skyscrapers, a vessel so mighty that she once ruled the oceans as the largest tanker ever built. This is the story of 'Seawise Giant', a maritime marvel that has sailed under many names—'Happy Giant', 'Jahre Viking', 'Knock Nevis', and 'Mont'.


From her construction to her decommission, 'Seawise Giant's journey is a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. Join us as we dive into the fascinating history of this oceanic titan, exploring her impressive dimensions, record-breaking feats, and the legacy she left behind.


The "Seawise Giant," the world's largest ship, dwarfs an average-sized tanker on the open sea.
The "Seawise Giant," the world's largest ship, dwarfs an average-sized tanker on the open sea.

'Seawise Giant's statistics were awe-inspiring, highlighting her massive scale. She had a deadweight tonnage of 646,000 mt and a displacement of 657,019 tonnes when fully loaded. This behemoth measured 458.45 meters in length, surpassing the height of many of the world's tallest structures, including the Petronas Towers. Her Ljungström turbine-powered engines allowed her to reach speeds of up to 16.5 knots in favorable conditions, a remarkable achievement for a vessel of her size.


Key Takeaways

  • 'Seawise Giant' was the longest self-propelled ship ever built, measuring 458.45 meters in length.

  • With a deadweight tonnage of 564,763 DWT, 'Seawise Giant' was the heaviest self-propelled ship at the time of her construction.

  • The ship's engines were powered by Ljungström turbines, enabling her to reach speeds of up to 16.5 knots in good weather conditions.

  • 'Seawise Giant' survived significant damage from an airstrike during the Iran-Iraq War in 1988, and was later repaired and returned to service.

  • The vessel's immense size posed unique navigational challenges, requiring specialized skills and equipment for maneuvering in narrow waterways and accessing ports.


The Birth of a Maritime Marvel

In the realm of maritime history, the Seawise Giant stands out as a vessel that has captivated the imagination. This colossal supertanker, a true marvel of naval engineering, was born in the late 1970s at the Oppama shipyard in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, Japan.


Conception and Construction

The construction of the Seawise Giant began in 1974, when she was ordered as an Ultra Large Crude Carrier (ULCC). Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (S.H.I.), a renowned Japanese shipbuilder, embarked on the challenge of creating this behemoth. Initially known only by her hull number 1016, the vessel was a testament to the ambition and technical prowess of her creators.





The Seawise Giant's ship details were truly astounding. Upon completion in 1979, the Jahre Viking, as she was originally named, boasted a staggering length of 458 meters (1,504 feet) and a carrying capacity exceeding 600,,000 tonnes. This made her the largest ship ever constructed at the time.


Specification

Measurement

Length

458.45 meters (1,504.1 feet)

Beam

68.8 meters (226 feet)

Draft

24.6 meters (81 feet)

Deadweight Tonnage

646,000 mt

Deck Space

31,541 square meters (339,500 square feet)

Cargo Capacity

4 million barrels


Sumitomo Heavy Industries: Building a Behemoth

The partnership between the Seawise Giant and Sumitomo Heavy Industries was a formidable force in bringing this maritime giant to life. S.H.I.'s expertise in shipbuilding was put to the ultimate test as they grappled with the sheer scale and complexity of the project. Despite severe vibration issues during sea trials, S.H.I. persevered, ultimately delivering a vessel that would forever change the face of the shipping industry.


The construction of the Seawise Giant was a monumental undertaking, requiring the dedication and skill of countless engineers, technicians, and workers. The result was a ship that defied conventional wisdom and pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in maritime engineering.


A Ship of Superlatives

The Seawise Giant, originally named Jahre Viking, was a marvel of maritime engineering. Constructed in 1979, this colossal supertanker held seawise giant specifications unmatched by any contemporary vessel.


Unrivaled Dimensions and Tonnage

The Seawise Giant's giant dimensions were awe-inspiring. Her giant length of 458.45 meters (1,504.1 feet) surpassed even the Petronas Towers, standing at 424 meters. Her enormity made her too large for major canals like the Suez and Panama canals.


The Seawise Giant's deadweight tonnage was equally impressive, with a fully laden weight of 646,000 deadweight tons (dwt). Her 46 tanks and vast deck space of 31,541 square meters (339,500 square feet) underscored her unmatched capacity.


Specification

Value

Length

458.45 meters

Max. Length

485.46 meters

Gross Tonnage

260,851.000

Net Tonnage

214,793.000

Breadth

68.800 meters

Depth

29.800 meters

Deadweight Tonnage

646,000 mt


Propulsion and Power

Despite her massive size, the Jahre Viking could reach speeds of up to 16.5 knots (30.6 km/h). Her enormity necessitated a stopping distance of 9 km (5 1⁄2 mi) and a turning circle of about 3 km (2 mi).


"The Jahre Viking anchor, weighing 36 tons, is permanently exhibited at the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, serving as a testament to the ship's incredible size and power."

The Seawise Giant's dimensions and specifications significantly surpassed those of other competing supertankers, such as the Exxon Valdez. This cemented her status as a true giant of the seas.


The Seawise Giant, once the world's largest ship, gracefully navigates calm waters.
The Seawise Giant, once the world's largest ship, gracefully navigates calm waters.

Seawise Giant: The Early Years

In the early 1980s, the maritime industry welcomed a true giant - the Seawise Giant. This colossal vessel was the brainchild of Hong Kong's C.Y. Tung, a visionary shipping magnate. Tung, founder of Orient Overseas Container Line, acquired the partially-built ship from Sumitomo Heavy Industries. His goal was to create the world's largest ship, marking a new era in supertanker history.


Under Tung's stewardship, the Seawise Giant underwent a transformative jumboisation process. The ship was extended, increasing her cargo capacity by 146,152 tonnes. This enhancement cemented her status as the seas' undisputed monarch, boasting a record-breaking deadweight capacity of 646,000 metric tons.


C.Y. Tung's Ambitious Vision

C.Y. Tung's decision to enlarge the Seawise Giant showcased his visionary leadership in the shipping industry. He foresaw the potential of a massive supertanker to revolutionize crude oil transport globally. This bold move reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and confidence in maritime trade's future.


"Seawise", a pun on "C.Y.'s", was used in the names of other ships owned by C.Y. Tung, including Seawise University.

Navigating the World's Oceans

The Seawise Giant's early years saw her traverse the world's oceans, carrying vast crude oil cargoes. Her immense size presented unique challenges, as she couldn't navigate through the English Channel, Suez Canal, or Panama Canal. Despite these hurdles, she proved crucial in the energy supply chain, connecting oil-producing regions with global markets.


The seawise giant's early years were filled with awe and wonder. The maritime community was amazed by the engineering that brought this behemoth to life. Her dimensions, over 1,500 feet long and 226 feet wide, dwarfed even the Titanic.


As the Seawise Giant sailed the oceans, she became a symbol of human ingenuity and relentless progress. Her early years were just the start of a remarkable journey, leaving a lasting impact on maritime history.


Surviving the Iran-Iraq War

The Seawise Giant, a colossal supertanker measuring an astounding 458 meters (1,504 feet) in length, found herself caught in the crosshairs of the Iran-Iraq War in 1988.


The Attack on Larak Island

On May 14, 1988, the Iran-Iraq war took a dramatic turn when the vessel, anchored off Larak Island and carrying Iranian crude oil, came under attack by the Iraqi Air Force. Two Exocet missiles struck the Seawise Giant, igniting fires aboard the ship and on the surrounding water.


The attack was a devastating blow, with the fires raging out of control. Contrary to some reports, the vessel did not sink, but the damage was extensive, leading to a total loss declaration.


Rising from the Ashes

Despite the severity of the attack, the vessel's owners were determined to bring her back to life. Norman International, a renowned shipyard, took on the challenge of the repairs, replacing over 3,700 tons of steel to restore the ship's integrity.


Rebirth as Happy Giant

In the aftermath of the Iran-Iraq War, the Seawise Giant underwent a transformation, emerging from conflict's shadows to start anew. A Norwegian investment firm, led by Finanshuset, purchased the damaged vessel. They initiated a series of actions that would revive the colossal tanker.


The repair of Seawise Giant commenced with her towing from Labuan to Singapore's shipyards. There, a team of engineers and technicians worked diligently. Their efforts restored the ship to her former splendor. This endeavor showcased the maritime industry's resilience and creativity, as the tanker reemerged, ready to conquer the seas once again.


The massive 'Seawise Giant' oil tanker in a shipyard dock, undergoing extensive repairs and maintenance.
The massive 'Seawise Giant' oil tanker in a shipyard dock, undergoing extensive repairs and maintenance.

Renamed the "Happy Giant," the vessel reflected Norman International AS's values. The prefix "Happy" underscored the company's dedication to excellence and her optimistic stance on the shipping industry's future. With her revitalized name and mission, 'Happy Giant' set sail in October 1991, poised to make a global impact.


The giant's rebirth exemplified the maritime world's indomitable spirit. Despite war and economic hurdles, the vessel stood as a beacon of human ingenuity and the indelible connection between ships and their crews. As the Happy Giant traversed the oceans, she carried the aspirations of a new generation of sailors, ready to forge their paths and etch their legacies in history.


Jahre Viking: The Norwegian Era

In 1991, Norwegian shipping magnate Jørgen Jahre acquired the massive tanker Seawise Giant for US$39 million, renaming her Jahre Viking. The ship, already renowned for her incredible size, entered a new chapter under Norwegian ownership. From 1991 to 2004, the Jahre Viking sailed under the Norwegian flag, becoming a symbol of the country's maritime prowess.


Jørgen Jahre's Acquisition

Jørgen Jahre's purchase of the Seawise Giant was a bold move, reflecting his vision and ambition in the shipping industry. The tanker, with her unrivaled dimensions and tonnage, presented a unique opportunity for Jahre's company. The acquisition showcased Norway's commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the global maritime sector.


Under Jahre's ownership, the ship underwent various transformations and rebuilds, adapting to changing industry needs. One notable development was a potential contract with Maersk Oil Qatar, which intended to use the Jahre Viking as a Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) unit for three years, with an option for a two-year extension. This highlighted the vessel's versatility and her ability to secure long-term contracts in the offshore oil industry.


Challenges of Operating a Supertanker

Despite her impressive size and capabilities, operating the Jahre Viking posed significant challenges. The seawise giant supertanker was not the most practical vessel for transporting oil in the modern economy. The sheer scale of the ship meant that powering her was costly, and some ultra-large crude carriers (ULCCs) operated at a loss due to the economics of running such massive vessels.


Further, the Jahre Viking's enormous size presented navigational difficulties. With a draft of 24.61 meters (81 feet), the crew had to remain vigilant about the risk of running aground in waters that posed no problems for smaller ships. The tanker's lack of maneuverability also meant that she could not navigate through the English Channel, limiting her operational flexibility.


Despite these challenges, the Jahre Viking remained an iconic vessel during her time under Norwegian ownership. Her record-breaking size and the nation's pride in operating such a remarkable ship ensured her place in maritime history throughout the seawise giant norwegian era.


Conversion to 'Knock Nevis' FSO

In 2004, then 'Happy Giant' underwent a significant transformation, adapting to the changing times and the needs of the maritime industry. The colossal vessel was purchased by First Olsen Tankers and renamed her to 'Knock Nevis', marking the beginning of a new chapter in her illustrious history.


Adapting to Changing Times

The decision to convert the seawise giant into a Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) unit was a strategic move to maximize her potential in the evolving oil and gas sector. With a deadweight tonnage of 646,000 tonnes and a laden draft of 24.6 meters (81 feet), the Knock Nevis boasted an impressive storage capacity of 4.1 million barrels. This made her an ideal choice for offshore oil storage and offloading operations.



The Seawise Giant, fully laden, navigates the open seas, showcasing her massive structure and impressive capacity.
The Seawise Giant, fully laden, navigates the open seas, showcasing her massive structure and impressive capacity.

The conversion process involved extensive modifications to the vessel's structure and systems. The Knock Nevis was equipped with state-of-the-art technology and facilities to ensure efficient and safe operations as an FSO. Her deck space, spanning an impressive 31,541 square meters, and her 46 tanks were optimized to accommodate the storage and transfer of crude oil.


Anchored in the Al Shaheen Oil Field

Following her conversion, 'Knock Nevis' found her new home in the Al Shaheen Oil Field, located off the coast of Qatar in the Persian Gulf. This strategic positioning allowed the vessel to serve as a vital hub for the storage and offloading of crude oil produced in the region.


The Al Shaheen Oil Field, operated by Maersk Oil Qatar, is one of the largest offshore oil fields in the world. By stationing the Knock Nevis as an FSO in this field, the operators were able to streamline their production and transportation processes. This ensured a steady and efficient flow of oil to global markets.


'Knock Nevis' continued to serve as an FSO in the Al Shaheen Oil Field for several years, playing a crucial role in the region's oil and gas industry.


The Final Voyage as 'Mont'

In 2009, the 'Seawise Giant', then known as 'Knock Nevis', was acquired by Amber Development Corporation. She was renamed M/V 'Mont' for her final journey. The ship, with a laden draft of 24.6 meters, was too large for the English Channel, Suez Canal, or Panama Canal. She was reflagged to Sierra Leone and set sail for Alang, India.


'Mont' arrived at her final destination on December 22, 2009. The vessel, with 46 tanks and 31,451 square meters of deck space, was beached at Alang (India) for scrapping by Priya Blue Industries.


The dismantling of the massive supertanker was a lengthy and challenging task. Due to her size, the scrapping process took an entire year to complete & concluded at the end of 2010.


Ship Name

Length (feet)

Beam (feet)

Tonnage (DWT)

Seawise Giant (Mont)

1,504

225

646,000

Prelude FLNG

1,601

243

600,000+

Emma Maersk

1,305

184

156,907

TI Class Supertanker

1,247

223

440,000


The end of the Mont marked the conclusion of a remarkable journey for the Seawise Giant. This ship had pushed the boundaries of maritime engineering and held the title of the world's largest supertanker for decades. Though she no longer sails, her legacy as a symbol of human ingenuity and progress in the shipping industry endures.


Seawise Giant, Supertanker, Big Ship, Largest Tanker: A Legacy

'Seawise Giant' stands as a monumental achievement in the annals of shipbuilding. Her enormity, measuring 1,504 feet in length, eclipses the stature of the Empire State Building and the Eiffel Tower. Her width, a staggering 225 feet, rivals the wingspan of a 747 jumbo jet, underscoring her colossal scale.


Pushing the Boundaries of Maritime Engineering

'Seawise Giant' redefined the frontiers of maritime engineering, boasting a record-breaking deadweight tonnage of 564,763 tons. Yet, her enormity presented formidable challenges. She necessitated a nearly 2-mile radius for a turn and almost 5.5 miles to come to a complete stop, highlighting her limited maneuverability. Her fuel consumption was substantial too, a logical consequence of her massive dimensions.


Specification

Value

Length

1,504 feet

Width

225 feet

Deadweight Tonnage

646,000 mt

Turning Radius

~2 miles

Stopping Distance

~5.5 miles


Inspiring Future Generations of Shipbuilders

The Seawise Giant's legacy continues to inspire shipbuilders of the future. Her record-breaking size and capacity showcase the potential of maritime engineering when pushed to its limits. From her construction by Sumitomo Heavy Industries to her role in the Iran-Iraq War and subsequent conversion, the supertanker's journey exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of these maritime behemoths.


The preservation of her 36-tonne anchor, donated to the Hong Kong Maritime Museum in 2010, serves as a testament to the Seawise Giant's maritime history. Her relocation to the Hong Kong Government Dockyard building on Stonecutters Island ensures that her story will continue to captivate and inspire maritime enthusiasts for generations to come.


Scrapping a Legend

The Seawise Giant, the world's largest ship, arrived at Alang, India, in December 2009, marking the end of an era. The Seawise Giant, a marvel of maritime engineering, faced her final challenge at Alang's shipbreaking yard.


The End of an Era at Alang

The Seawise Giant's arrival at Alang was a significant moment in her history. Built in 1979, she had traversed the world's oceans for three decades. She survived war damage and changed owners six times, carrying up to 4.1 million barrels of oil in her prime.


The decision to retire the Seawise Giant was not taken lightly. She had been a stationary storage facility for her last six years. Yet, the time had come for her to be dismantled, with Alang chosen as the final destination.


Recycling a Titan: The Dismantling Process

The dismantling of the Seawise Giant was an epic undertaking. Thousands of workers at Alang shipyard were tasked with the monumental task. The process was expected to take over a year, given the ship's size and complexity.


'Seawise Giant' exemplified human creativity and the drive for discovery. Her dismantling signifies the conclusion of an era, yet her legacy will endure in maritime history records.

Seawise Giant's Place in Maritime History

Lessons Learned from the Seawise Giant's Journey

'Seawise Giant's story showcases the ingenuity and ambition of naval engineers and shipbuilders. They pushed the boundaries of size and capacity. Yet, she also reveals the challenges and risks of operating such massive vessels, from navigational difficulties to economic viability in evolving markets.


Despite surviving a missile attack during the Iran-Iraq War, the Seawise Giant ultimately succumbed to the pressures of a changing oil market. The decision to scrap her in 2009 was driven by high operating costs that outweighed potential earnings. This highlights the importance of adaptability in the maritime industry.

The legacy of the Seawise Giant extends beyond her unparalleled size.


It lies in the lessons learned from her journey. As the largest ship ever constructed, she showcased the potential for innovation in maritime engineering. Yet, she also highlighted the practical limitations of such endeavors. Her story serves as an inspiration for future generations of shipbuilders, encouraging them to dream big while remaining mindful of the ever-changing landscape of the global shipping industry.


Conclusion

'Seawise Giant', a maritime marvel, has left an indelible mark on naval history. Her massive size, measuring 458 meters in length and with a deadweight tonnage of 564,763 tons, made her a true giant of the seas. Capable of carrying 4.1 million barrels of crude oil at 16.5 knots, she showcased the ingenuity and ambition of her creators.


Despite her enormity, 'Seawise Giant' faced numerous challenges, including the inability to navigate through key waterways like the Suez and Panama Canals. Her size also made anchoring & berthing at most ports a significant difficulty. Yet, she persevered, surviving the Iran-Iraq War and undergoing transformations under different owners and names. This vessel exemplified the indomitable spirit of human engineering.


The Seawise Giant's scrapping at Alang in 2009 marked the end of her journey. Yet, her impact on the maritime industry is profound. The lessons from her construction, operation, and eventual scrapping have significantly influenced shipbuilding and naval architecture. Though vessels of similar size may be rare, the Seawise Giant's legacy as a symbol of innovation and progress will continue to inspire future generations.


FAQ

What made the Seawise Giant the largest ship ever built?

'Seawise Giant', the longest ship ever constructed, measured 458.45 m (1,504.1 ft) in length. She boasted the highest deadweight tonnage at 564,763 tonnes, ranking sixth in gross tonnage at 260,941 GT. Her immense size and cargo capacity made her a maritime marvel and an engineering feat.


Who originally ordered the construction of the Seawise Giant?

Initially, a Greek owner ordered the Seawise Giant in 1974. During sea trials, the vessel exhibited severe vibration problems. The owner refused delivery, leading to a lengthy arbitration. The ship was then sold to Hong Kong's C.Y. Tung, who refitted and renamed her Seawise Giant.


How did the Seawise Giant survive the Iran-Iraq War?

In 1988, the Seawise Giant was hit by two Exocet missiles while anchored off Larak Island, Iran. Fires ignited aboard, but the ship did not sink. She was towed to Singapore for repairs and renamed Happy Giant.


Who owned the Seawise Giant during her Norwegian era?

In 1991, Norwegian magnate Jørgen Jahre bought the tanker for US$39 million, renaming her Jahre Viking. She was owned by various Norwegian firms and flew the Norwegian flag until 2004. The challenges of operating such a massive vessel became apparent, as she could not navigate the English Channel and faced a constant risk of running aground.


What was the Seawise Giant's final role before being scrapped?

In 2004, the Seawise Giant was purchased by First Olsen Tankers, renamed Knock Nevis, and converted into a permanently moored storage tanker in the Qatar Al Shaheen Oil Field. This conversion allowed the aging supertanker to adapt to changing times and continue serving the maritime industry in a new capacity.


Where and when was the Seawise Giant scrapped?

'Seawise Giant', renamed 'Mont' for her final voyage, arrived at the Alang shipbreaking yard in Gujarat, India, in December 2009. The scrapping process took approximately a year, requiring up to 18,000 laborers to dismantle the enormous vessel, marking the end of an era for this legendary ship.


What is the legacy of the Seawise Giant in maritime history?

'Seawise Giant's story showcases incredible feats of maritime engineering and pushes the boundaries of what is possible in shipbuilding. Despite the challenges faced throughout her lifetime, she remains an iconic symbol of human ingenuity and resilience. She inspires future generations of shipbuilders and naval architects to dream big and innovate in the world of maritime transportation.


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