DRYDOCKING
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Drydocking Services
6Sigma Marine is situated at the entrance of Sturrock Drydock, Cape Town. (see our location here). In this drydock, we have welcomed large vessels such as the Saipem FDS2. This dock can be divided into two compartments; 132, 5 m and 216, 1 m or 205, 7 m and 142, 9 m in length. (See all drydock facilities below)
Early bookings are essential as all facilties are owned and operated by the National Ports Authority on a first-come-first-serve basis
5-year Drydocking:
A scheduled maintenance period that takes place every five years to ensure that the ship remains in good condition and complies with safety and regulatory requirements. Once the vessel is out of the water, the hull and other parts of the vessel are inspected for damage, wear and tear, and other issues that need to be addressed. Repairs and maintenance tasks that may be carried out during a 5-year drydocking include cleaning and painting the hull, replacing or repairing damaged or worn-out parts, inspecting and repairing the vessel’s propulsion system, replacing or overhauling the vessel’s machinery, and installing new equipment or upgrades as necessary.
Intermediate survey drydocking:
A maintenance period that takes place midway between two 5-year drydockings. The purpose of an intermediate survey is to carry out a more focused inspection of the vessel’s hull and other critical systems and to address any issues that may have arisen since the last 5 year drydocking.
Quayside Ship Maintenance, Repairs, Refit and Conversions:
The first step to approach this procedure is to assess the vessel’s condition and identify any issues or areas that require attention. Once any issues have been identified, our company will develop a repair or maintenance plan that outlines the necessary steps to restore the vessel to its optimal condition.
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Drydocking Locations
Sturrock Drydock (Cape Town)
- Overall docking length: 360m
- Length on keel blocks: 338.3m
- Length of dock floor: 350.4m
- Width at coping: 47.5m
- Width at entrance top: 45.1m
- Maximum width at bottom: 38.4m
- Depth on entrance sill HWOST: 13.7m
- Depth on inner sill HWOST: 15.1m
- Depth: 14m
- Repair Quay Length: 456m, landing wall 548m
Robinson Drydock (Cape Town)
- Overall docking length: 161.2m
- Length on keel blocks: 142.6m
- Length of dock floor: 152.4m
- Width at coping: 27.4m
- Width at entrance top: 20.7m
- Maximum width at bottom: 17.2m
- Depth on entrance sill HWOST: 8.3
- Depth on inner sill HWOST: 7.9m
Syncrolift (Cape Town)
- Overall docking length: 80m
- Depth over entrance sill: 15.9m
- Maximum beam of vessels: 14m
- Repair lanes available (length): 2 x 70m, 1 x 55m, 2 x 75m
East London
- Overall docking length: 200m
- Length on keel blocks: 193.1m
- Length of dock floor: 98.5m
- Width at coping: 31.2m
- Width at entrance top: 27.2m
- Maximum width at bottom: 22.9m
- Depth on entrance sill MHWS: 10.2m
- Depth on inner sill MHWS: 10.2m
- Maximum beam of vessels: 24.8m
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Drydocking FAQ section, where we address common queries about the essential process of drydocking for maritime vessels. Here, you’ll find detailed explanations about the drydocking procedure, its significance, and the range of services offered during this critical maintenance period. Whether you’re curious about drydocking intervals, the scope of maintenance activities, or safety measures employed, our FAQs provide comprehensive insights to help you better understand this vital aspect of maritime operations.
What is drydocking, and why is it necessary for ships?
Drydocking is the process of bringing a ship to a designated facility where it can be lifted out of the water for inspection, maintenance, and repairs. It’s necessary to ensure the vessel’s structural integrity, maintain regulatory compliance, and address any issues that may arise from prolonged exposure to water.
How often should a ship undergo drydocking?
The frequency of drydocking depends on various factors, including the type of vessel, its operational conditions, and regulatory requirements. Generally, ships undergo drydocking every 2 to 5 years for routine inspections and maintenance. However, specific intervals may vary based on classification society rules and the ship’s condition.
What types of maintenance and repairs can be performed during drydocking?
During drydocking, a wide range of maintenance and repair activities can be performed, including hull cleaning and painting, propeller inspection and repair, structural steelwork, machinery overhauls, and equipment upgrades. These tasks are crucial for ensuring the vessel’s safety, performance, and compliance with industry standards.
How do you ensure the safety and environmental sustainability of the drydocking process?
Safety and environmental sustainability are top priorities during the drydocking process. Our facilities adhere to strict safety protocols and environmental regulations to minimise risks and prevent pollution. We employ certified professionals, utilise advanced technology, and implement best practices to safeguard workers, the vessel, and the surrounding ecosystem.
Can you accommodate specific scheduling requirements for booking a drydocking slot?
We understand that scheduling flexibility is essential for our clients. Our dedicated team works closely with shipowners and operators to accommodate specific booking requirements for drydocking slots. Whether it’s adjusting dates, prioritising urgent repairs, or coordinating with other maintenance activities, we strive to provide tailored solutions to meet our clients’ needs.