Yes Vyon, I think you got a good point there, these 'stands' are more or less a form of stabilizing the vessel when un/loading is in operation berthed at a quay.Thanks and regards.

Hi Emmanuel,
Yes, the skids are only around 4 m2, the berth must be very strong. But I don't think that the all weight is transfered on these legs. I thing they are used only to control the list.
But the best would be that a specialist gives his point of view.
Regards,
Yvon

Hi Yvon , but this system could only be used against/on a well built quay with good foundation.regards.

Thanks Denis, never seen this contraption in operation.

Hi Denis,
A photo of such a leg in operation now posted :
http://www.shipspotting.com/gallery/photo.php?lid=2225551
Regards,
Yvon

Yes, why it caught my attention is that such system was applied on mostly 70s heavylifters, but then it became more common to use a side pontoon/stabilizer.

Hi Denis, do you mean that triangular derrick like structure? regards.

Starboard side front of the superstructure - looks like there's a support leg by which the vessel can "stand" on a dock during heavy lifting operations.