January 11, 2026
The global dredging industry has its eyes fixed on DEME's newly delivered "Spartacus" — a true behemoth that represents not just a cutter suction dredger (CSD), but the pinnacle of technological innovation heralding a new era in maritime engineering.
Built by Dutch shipbuilder Royal IHC, the "Spartacus" stands as the world's largest and most powerful self-propelled CSD. Beyond its unprecedented excavation capacity, the vessel sets new environmental benchmarks. DEME states the delivery marks an unprecedented new phase for global dredging operations.
With a total installed power of 44,180 kW , Spartacus delivers unparalleled productivity and hard soil excavation capabilities. In dredging operations where efficiency equals profitability, the vessel represents the gold standard. Its robust cutting power ensures high performance across diverse geological conditions, significantly reducing project timelines and costs.
As the world's first LNG-powered CSD, Spartacus leads the industry in environmental stewardship. Its four main engines can operate on low-sulfur heavy fuel oil, marine diesel, or LNG, while two auxiliary engines feature dual-fuel technology. This flexible fuel system reduces operational expenses while dramatically cutting harmful emissions.
The vessel incorporates an innovative waste heat recovery system that converts exhaust heat into electrical energy, enhancing efficiency while minimizing carbon footprint. These environmental innovations demonstrate DEME's commitment to sustainable development.
Spartacus features a heavy-duty cutter ladder controllable by a single operator from the bridge. This high level of automation reduces operational complexity while improving accuracy and safety. With a maximum dredging depth of 45 meters , the vessel can handle challenging deep-water projects across various applications.
Following delivery, Spartacus will immediately deploy to Abu Qir, Egypt for DEME's largest-ever dredging and land reclamation project. The massive undertaking includes creating 1,000 hectares of new land, deepening port access channels to 23 meters, and excavating a 22-meter-deep turning basin. Contract specifications require dredging over 150 million cubic meters of material.
The Abu Qir project's scale and tight schedule make Spartacus the ideal solution, reflecting DEME's confidence in the vessel's capabilities. Industry observers anticipate the CSD will play a pivotal role in the project's successful completion.
Spartacus represents more than a corporate achievement for DEME — it marks a technological leap for the entire dredging sector. Its LNG propulsion, heat recovery systems, and automation technologies establish new industry standards for environmental responsibility, efficiency, and intelligent operations.
The vessel's introduction signals a future where similar innovative equipment will transform global infrastructure development. DEME continues to lead this evolution through advanced dredging solutions that deliver exceptional value.
Spartacus embodies more than maritime machinery — it represents a commitment to technological advancement, environmental stewardship, and visionary industry leadership. The vessel symbolizes the dredging sector's evolution toward sustainable, efficient, and intelligent operations that will power global economic development.
As infrastructure demands grow worldwide, innovative vessels like Spartacus will shape the industry's future. From Abu Qir to projects across the globe, this engineering marvel will write new chapters in maritime history through its exceptional performance and environmental consciousness.
