Iconic Antwerp floating crane Brabo sold to Dutch firm

Brabo, a landmark floating crane in the Port of Antwerp, has been sold to a Dutch company after more than four decades of service. The crane, described as an "icon" of the port, was instrumental in various heavy-lifting operations, including the notable removal of a whale carcass from the Deurganckdok in August 2023.

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Brabo is a icon for our haven.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges announced the sale at the end of 2024, citing the crane's declining usage and significant maintenance expenses. As larger ships increasingly come equipped with their own cranes, Brabo's specialized role diminished. The Dutch company Hebo, which specializes in lifting, salvage, and maritime projects, has acquired Brabo with the intention of giving it a new future.

"Brabo is special because the crane can lift very heavy loads up to 800 tons," said Gert Ickx, spokesperson for Port of Antwerp-Bruges. "It is an icon for our port. Antwerp residents will certainly still remember the images from August 2023 when Brabo was used to remove a whale carcass from the water." The crane's historical tasks included moving bridge sections, relocating large cranes, and positioning the outer door of the Royerssluis, as well as handling parts for industrial installations and large machinery.

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Brabo is special because the crane can lift very heavy loads up to 800 tons. It is an icon for our port. The Antwerp resident will certainly still remember the images from August 2023 when Brabo was used to remove a whale carcass from the water.

Built in Hoboken in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Brabo has deep ties to Antwerp. Hebo has expressed an intention to continue utilizing the crane's lifting capacity in Antwerp for existing and future clients, which would help maintain specialized services within the port. The handover is scheduled for the end of the month, though the sale price has not been disclosed.

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Hebo speaks the intention to also deploy the lifting capacity in Antwerp for existing and future users.