Sarens is proud to announce the successful completion of the Tara Polar Station transfer, a pivotal part of the TARA project aimed at advancing scientific research in the Arctic. The project, carried out from September 20 to September 23, 2024, involved the careful loading and transportation of this unique polar research vessel from the Constructions Mécaniques de Normandie (CMN) shipyard to the port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin in France.

The Tara Polar Station is designed to enhance global scientific understanding of climate change in the Arctic, one of the planet’s most extreme and vulnerable environments. This 200-ton vessel, measuring 26 meters in length and 16 meters in width, will be central to studies on Arctic biodiversity and the adaptive capacities of local species in response to changing climate conditions.

Given the size and weight of the Tara Polar Station, the Sarens team faced unique challenges in planning and executing the transport. The assembly phase, which took place in mid-August, involved the use of a 130-ton crane in tandem with an overhead crane to precisely assemble the vessel’s hull and geode.

For the transport phase, Sarens utilised 2x10 lines of modular transport systems (SPMTs) to ensure the vessel's safe and accurate movement. This equipment provided optimal manoeuvrability and allowed for careful navigation through the streets of Cherbourg, where certain roads were temporarily closed to facilitate the transfer. The entire operation took place over three days, with the vessel being successfully delivered to the port slipway. From there, it will remain until its official launch.

Leading the project were Sarens' expert team members, including Romaric Marvie, Crawler Crane Department Manager for France, and Elodie Arondel, Project Manager, with Stijn Van Gyseghem overseeing transport operations. Their expertise, alongside the advanced equipment used, ensured a smooth and safe transfer.

This project demonstrates Sarens’ commitment to delivering excellence in complex logistical and engineering operations. The careful planning and execution of the Tara Polar Station transfer not only supported the scientific community but also showcased Sarens’ capabilities in handling oversized, highly specialized loads with precision and care.

As we continue to take part in projects that push the boundaries of what is possible in engineering and logistics, Sarens remains dedicated to playing a key role in supporting groundbreaking research initiatives like the TARA project. With each successful operation, we build on our reputation for delivering tailored, innovative solutions for our clients worldwide.