Marine Jib Cranes: Insider Tips and Best Deals

When it comes to lifting cargo on ships and offshore platforms, the Marine Jib Crane is a popular choice for its compact design and impressive efficiency. Whether you're working in tight spaces or need a simple, reliable crane, the Marine Jib Crane offers a great balance of versatility and power.

ShipUniverse: Marine Jib Crane
Quick Overview
Best For	Routine cargo handling, loading/offloading supplies, smaller deck operations, and offshore support roles.
Load Capacity	Typically 5 to 100 tons. Lighter-duty models handle under 20 tons, while specialized heavy-duty models can exceed 100 tons when reinforced and pedestal-mounted.
Boom Type	Traditional fixed jib, sometimes paired with a slewing base for rotation. Designs vary from manual slewing to full hydraulic swing for better control.
Reach & Rotation	Standard reach ranges from 3 to 30 meters. Many models support full 360° rotation, though some smaller cranes may have restricted arc movement for safety.
Space Efficiency	Very compact design. Excellent for tight ship layouts, engine rooms, or supply decks with limited clearance. Requires minimal mounting footprint.
Common Vessels	Workboats, offshore supply vessels, tugs, research ships, cargo carriers, and smaller rigs or barges where precision and space-saving matter.
Pros	✅ Space-saving, even on cluttered decks ✅ Mechanically simple and rugged ✅ Affordable compared to larger articulated or telescopic cranes ✅ Reliable in harsh weather and marine conditions ✅ Easy to train crew on basic operations
Cons	❌ Limited outreach compared to telescopic or knuckle boom cranes ❌ Not suitable for very heavy loads unless custom built ❌ Some models lack automation or fine control ❌ Fixed boom angle can limit load positioning in dynamic sea states
Maintenance	Relatively low upkeep. Grease all pivot points regularly. Check hydraulic cylinders and slewing rings for leaks or wear. Saltwater corrosion protection (zincs + coatings) is key for longevity.
Price Range	Approx. $50,000 to $300,000+. Small deck cranes start near $50K; heavy-duty or custom hydraulic models (especially offshore-rated) can push beyond $300K depending on specs and certifications.

📈 Insider Tips

If you’re adding or upgrading a Marine Jib Crane, knowing the specs is only half the battle — the real value comes from the practical insights of operators and shipbuilders who use these cranes every day. From maximizing efficiency in tight spaces to preventing early wear in salt-heavy environments, these insider tips can help you get the most out of your crane investment.

ShipUniverse: Marine Jib Crane – Insider Tips
Tip	Details
Stick to Load Limits	Never push close to the rated max. Operators often overload during "quick lifts" which can cause long-term wear or sudden failure. Stay 10-15% under the rated limit if you can.
Protect Hydraulic Lines	Install protective sleeves or guards on hydraulic hoses exposed to salt spray. Corrosion here is a top cause of crane shutdowns at sea.
Grease Regularly	Use marine-grade grease on slewing rings, pivot points, and boom joints at least every two weeks. More often in wet or high-use conditions.
Keep a Spare Pendant	If your crane uses a remote or wired pendant controller, keep a backup on board. They’re prone to water damage and cost downtime when they fail at sea.
Check Deck Bolts Monthly	Bolts anchoring the crane to the deck can loosen from constant vibration and stress. A quick torque check each month prevents long-term damage or instability.
Use It Monthly	Crane left idle too long? Run it monthly, even without a load, to cycle the hydraulic system and keep seals, joints, and wiring in healthy condition.
Train for Lift Angles	Many failures happen because of poor angle usage. Crews should be trained on safe lift geometry, especially on uneven sea conditions or moving decks.
Add a Weather Cover	A simple fitted cover can double the life of exposed components, especially when the vessel sits idle for long stretches or is docked in salty spray zones.