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Modulift Spreader Frame Lifts Viking Boats on TV Set

Modulift spreader beams in the lift of a viking boat

A modular spreader frame comprising of Modulift beams has been used to lift handcrafted boats for the filming of the History Channel’s “Vikings” drama series. 

The project took place in County Wicklow, Ireland, with the elaborate set created at Ashford International Film Studios. It was shot in collaboration with Irish National Marine Services. 

Modulift Viking Ship Lift
Modulift beams assisting the lift of a handcrafted boat

What Equipment Was Used? 

Modulift’s CMOD 24 Frame 

Modulift’s CMOD 24 frame was used  beneath the hook of a 50t-capacity Grove GMK 3050 mobile crane, supplied by crane sales company Irlequip Ltd. Irlequip is a distributor of Modulift spreader beams in Ireland. 

Supplied from Irlequip’s Modulift stock, the chosen frame had a 5 x 4m maximum span, allowing it to lift all vessel types on set. The boats varied in dimension, with some weighing up to 5,000kg. Our CMOD 24 frame, recommended for loads that have more than two lifting points, is capable of lifting up to 30t depending on configuration. 

Most lifts on this project saw the frame employed at 4 x 3m, but the larger span was also used for the biggest  boats. 

Damien Maher, Capital Equipment Sales at Irlequip said of the project: “We were asked to provide a solution for lifting boats in a safe manner. We suggested the spreader frame as a practical means to not only lift but also to cradle the boats, thus, preventing any inward pressure or stress. Furthermore, the rig allowed the boats’ masts and sail rigging to protrude through the opening inside the ‘box’ created by the beams.” 

Additional Cranes and Rigging Gear 

Irlequip were consulted on the additional rigging gear and recommended the correct slings and shackles required, allowing the user to source the equipment from their regular supplier. 

In this case, a 50t mobile crane with a ‘power-boom’ was deemed the best solution allowing maximum flexibility where internal headroom was at a premium. Additionally, the hydraulic luffing jib proved invaluable for mounting lighting and allowed for the precise focus of light during certain shoots. 

Maher said: “Irlequip always carries a stock of mobile cranes ranging from 40-250t, being new and refurbished. Additionally, we carry a stock of tower cranes to serve our customer demands. The market remains buoyant, and we continue to invest in growing our team and facilities.” 

Maher and the team remained in regular contact with the crane operator and onsite riggers as the project continued.  

Why Was Modulift’s CMOD 24 the Best Choice? 

The CMOD modular spreader frame is designed to expand the capabilities of Modulift’s modular spreader beam system. The struts from the beams are combined with four corner units to complete the frame.  

Those already in possession of Modulift struts can reuse them with the corner units to achieve four-point lifts, perfect for jobs that need maximum stability. 

Maher explained that the CMOD 24 is the smallest frame that facilitates a length of 5m, making it ideal for the precision and flexibility demanded by the project. He concluded: 
 
“We carry a large [Modulift] stock ranging from MOD 6 to MOD 70 and also CLS adjustable spreader beams. Larger beams can be supplied to our customers thanks to the excellent support we receive from the team at Modulift UK—often at very short notice. We would like to thank all our customers for their continued business, without each and every one of them our continued success would not be possible.” 

The CMOD spreader frame is currently available in a range of sizes, from the CMOD 6 up to the CMOD 250. The systems lift up to 300t. 


At Modulift, we manufacture and supply specialist lifting equipment, including spreader beams, lifting beams, and spreader frames. 

Our products are used globally by a range of industries and we can also provide a custom design service. 

Make an enquiry or download our brochure to find out more. Alternatively, call us on 01202 621511.