The two great yellow-painted gantry cranes, named after the Biblical figures Samson and Goliath, have become icons of Belfast, dominating not just Queen's Island but the entire city skyline.
Constructed to service the vast new graving dock at Harland and Wolff, Goliath (the smaller at 315 ft) began work in 1969, the 348ft Samson five years later. Each of the Krupp-Ardelt designed cranes can lift loads of up to 840 tons.
Harland and Wolff were still one of the world's great shipbuilders at the time and the building of the two cranes, during a difficult period for shipbuilding in Belfast, was seen as a sign of faith in the future. Now much beloved Belfast landmarks, their own future was assured in 2003 when they were scheduled for preservation.
Harland and Wolff also owns the world's largest dry dock, which is in Belfast.
Please note that our photographer was granted special access to the shipyard and cranes. The general public are not permitted within the grounds of Harland & Wolff.
A one hour boat tour is available, taking in the Harland and Wolff yards and the sites relating to the Titanic. Prior booking is essential. Contact Errol 028 9033 0844, 07718 910423.