A new sophisticated crane barge arrived yesterday evening at Giglio Island in order to carry out operations related to the fourth stage of the Costa Concordia removal project.
After the successful parbuckling that took place on September 17, 2013, the offshore crane barge, CONQUEST MB1, will take part in the installation of the 19 sponsons to be completed before refloating of the Concordia that is scheduled for summer 2014.
The barge is fitted with a sophisticated rotating/luffing crane and associated automated heel/trim compensation system. It is designed on a modular concept and accommodation modules suitable for 60 persons.
Furthermore a full air-range diving spread has been arranged on board and the diver teams involved in the installation of the sponsons will operate from the barge.
The latest timing based on the progress of work on the project envisages that the wreck will be removed by the summer of 2014.
[mappress] April 21, 2014