The dynamic response of moored crane-ship is studied. Governing equations for the dynamic response of a crane-ship coupled with the pendulum motion of the payload are derived based on Lagrange’s equations. The boom is modeled based on finite element method, while the payload is modeled as a planar pendulum of point mass. The dynamic response was studied using numerical method. The calculation results show that the large-amplitude responses occur at wave periods near the natural period of the payload. Load swing angle is smaller for crane-ship with flexible boom, in comparison with rigid boom. The ship surge mo- tions have large vibrations for crane-ship with flexible boom, which were not observed for a rigid boom. The analysis identifies the significance of key parameters and reveals how the system design can be adjusted to avoid critical conditions. Governing equations for the dynamic response of a crane-ship coupled with the pendulum motion of the payload are derived based on Lagrange’s equations. The boom is modeled based on finite element method, while the payload The dynamic response was studied using numerical methods. The calculation results show that the large-amplitude responses occur at wave periods near the natural period of the payload. Load swing angle is smaller for crane-ship with flexible boom, in comparison with rigid boom. The ship surge mo- tions have large vibrations for crane-ship with flexible boom, which were not observed for a rigid boom. The analysis identifies the significance of key parameters and reveals how the system design can be adjusted to avoid critical conditions.