Dry Docking vs Afloat Repair — Dubai Ship Maintenance Guide
A practical comparison to help owners & operators pick the right path for safety, compliance, and cost-efficiency.
What is Dry Docking?
Dry docking lifts the vessel out of water into a drained dock so the hull, rudder, propeller, and underwater structures can be fully inspected and repaired. Dubai hosts major facilities — including Drydocks World — offering large graving docks, floating docks, and extensive berth space that handle everything from routine maintenance to major conversions.
Dry docking is mandatory at intervals of around 2–5 years, as per IMO and class society rules, ensuring vessels remain seaworthy and compliant.
What is Afloat Repair?
Afloat repair takes place while the vessel remains in the water — onboard teams, divers, or support vessels perform repairs without dry-docking. Ideal for fast fixes, emergency patches, or services that don’t require hull exposure.
Dry Docking vs Afloat Repair – Key Differences
| Factor | Dry Docking | Afloat Repair |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher — dock fees, heavy lifting, material & labor | Lower — minimal facility fees |
| Downtime | Weeks (depending on repair scope) | Hours – days |
| Repairs Possible | Full maintenance: hull, propeller, structure, class surveys | Limited: non-structural or emergency fixes |
| Compliance | Meets class and IMO inspection requirements | Not sufficient for scheduled surveys |
| Long-Term Benefit | Extends lifespan, improves efficiency | Temporary — may lead to recurring costs |
When to Choose Dry Docking
- Due for mandatory class or SOLAS inspection.
- Major hull, propeller, or underwater work required.
- Retrofit or modernization (e.g., ballast water treatment system).
- Preventive maintenance for long-term efficiency and fuel savings.
When to Choose Afloat Repair
- Minor engine, piping, or deck machinery fixes.
- Emergency patches to keep a vessel operational.
- Between charters where downtime must be minimal.
- 24/7 afloat repair teams available in Dubai ports.
Decision Flow (Interactive)
Long-Term Cost View
While dry docking involves higher initial cost, it prevents breakdowns and ensures compliance — saving money in the long run. Afloat repairs are cost-effective short-term solutions but can accumulate if used repeatedly for structural issues.
FAQs
Most vessels are dry-docked every 2–5 years, depending on class rules, vessel type, and age. Class societies often require at least two bottom inspections in a 5-year survey cycle.
Afloat repair is reliable for minor fixes and emergencies but cannot replace full inspections, class surveys, or structural overhauls that require dry docking.
Costs depend on vessel size, repair scope, and dock type. While upfront costs are higher, dry docking reduces long-term expenses through efficiency gains and preventive maintenance.
Explore providers such as ARC SHIP Dry Docking Services Dubai and major yards like Drydocks World. Always compare quotes, capacity, and past project experience.
Estimate & Planning Checklist (Printable)
- Vessel details: name, type, LOA, beam, draft, GT/NT, class society.
- Scope: hull cleaning/painting, shaft work, steel repairs, retrofits.
- Preferred dates: docking window & flexibility.
- Survey requirements: class survey type & deadline.
- Spare parts: list critical spares & lead time.
- Budget range: align scope vs options (dry dock vs afloat).
