Goliath is the world’s largest backhoe dregdger- and the Aberdeen Harbour expansion team have stuck on a GoPro to really see it in action.
The aptly-named vessel operated by Van Oord, spanning 68metres-long, has been helping to create the South Breakwater of the £350million project, as well as dredging activities for the entire site.
Aberdeen Harbour Board has released footage of the “Goliath Bucket Cam”, giving a unique perspective of what it takes to get the South Harbour to its depth of up to 15 metres, the disclaimer being not to watch “if you don’t like rollercoasters”.
The expanded harbour is due to begin a phased opening later this year with bosses saying in December it was 70% completed.
© Aberdeen Harbour BoardThe project is the largest marine infrastructure development currently under way in the UK, having kicked-off in 2017.
Once complete, the upgraded facility will be the largest berthage port in Scotland and will welcome vessels up to 1,000ft in length.
Earlier this month, Harbour Board chairman Alistair McKenzie warned that the impacts of Covid have left funds for certain green infrastructure projects at the development, such as service trenches for clean fuels and quayside electrification, in doubt.
However, he said directors “remain hopeful that a solution can be found” and that they would now look to the UK Government for backing.