11 LMM V I S I O N ISSUE 24 | Q1 2026 ARTICLE A typical LNG carrier dry docking may include, but is not limited to: ●● Hull inspection and steel renewal (particularly in cases involving severe contact with docks or tug boats). ●● Propeller and rudder maintenance. ●● Hull coating and anti-fouling application. ●● Ballast tank inspection. ●● Structural repairs (although uncommon, as these vessels are designed for a fatigue life of approximately 40 years). ●● Maintenance of cargo handling equipment, including cargo pumps, relief valves, and re-liquefaction systems. ●● Containment system integrity inspections and testing. ●● Propulsion system maintenance, including main engines. ●● Auxiliar equipment maintenance (works that cannot be performed during sailing). ●● HV equipment inspection and servicing. ●● Navigational equipment servicing. ●● Firefighting and lifesaving equipment servicing in accordance with applicable requirements. Due to the extensive scope, it is common practice for the Shipyard selection process to begin well in advance of the scheduled dry docking period. Early planning is essential, as only a limited number of Shipyards worldwide possess both the infrastructure and the expertise required to handle LNG carriers. One of the primary evaluation criteria is the Shipyard’s previous experience with LNG vessels. Consequently, Shipyards with a strong LNG repair portfolio are generally preferred. As in most cases, the Shipyard selection for LNG carrier repairs is conducted through a competitive tendering process. For this particular case, the Company issued detailed repair specifications to six selected Shipyards (in Europe, Asia and Middle East), which subsequently submitted both commercial and technical proposals. These proposals were evaluated based on cost, schedule, technical capability, safety performance, quality assurance systems, and previous LNG project experience. Following a physical audit, Damen Brest was selected as the preferred Shipyard for the HELLAS DIANA dry docking, as it combined all of the above requirements. In addition, its geographical location contributed to minimizing off-hire losses, while also accommodating the Charterers’ instructions and preferred routing. Although the Company had no prior experience with this specific Shipyard, and despite the additional unexpected works that arose during the project, the dry docking was completed within the required timeframe and without major impact on the vessel’s commercial obligations. Immediately following the completion of the dry docking, a gassing-up and cooling-down operation was safely carried out alongside within Shipyard premises by an appointed by Company LNG bunker barge, enabling HELLAS DIANA to resume her commercial voyage prior to departing the Shipyard. The successful completion of the HELLAS DIANA dry docking was the result of thorough planning (a process initiated nearly one year in advance) and the effective execution and cooperation of all Departments involved. This ensured the timely and efficient completion of all scheduled repairs during the dry docking period. We would like to thank all office staff and crew members for their valuable contribution and effective involvement throughout both the preparation phase and the dry docking itself. As we now look ahead to the upcoming dry docking of HELLAS ATHINA, we remain confident and hopeful of achieving equally successful results.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxOTY2