In April 2018, Palfinger Marine received a purchase order for a knuckle boom crane (PKM 250) from the F/V Northwestern’s captain, Sig Hansen. The crane will be used for lifting operations on the iconic crab fishing boat.

In 2005, Discovery Channel began airing the documentary TV show “Deadliest Catch,” which portrays life aboard fishing vessels in the Bering Sea. Since then, Captain Sig has been one of the most charismatic characters of the globally watched TV show.

Cranes are extremely important on crab fishing boats. They are used intensively in rough seas. The F/V Northwestern can carry up to 250 pots, which are handled by the crane day and night with very few interruptions. The super-low weight of the crane was one of the main selling arguments; the lighter the crane, the more stable the ship is, which means that the vessel is both safer and more efficient.

“I am very proud that Captain Sig Hansen and his crew trusted us. It proves that Palfinger Marine is recognized for its high-quality and reliable products,” says Brian Jacob, the company’s business development manager for the North American fishing industry in Seattle.

Delivery of the crane to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, is planned by the end of 2018. From there, it will head straight to the opilio and bairdi crab seasons.

Get to know Brian and the Palfinger Marine team at Pacific Marine Expo. We are looking forward to welcoming you at booth 742.