Dry dock confirms capacity with historic docking
Historic Durban dry dock welcomes 228-metre tanker for major maintenance
SOUTH AFRICA: In a return to previously demonstrated capacity, Durban’s historic Prince Edward Graving Dock will host a ten-day project that includes essential maintenance, repairs and statutory inspections of a crude oil tanker.
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) successfully docked the 228-metre oil tanker, describing it as one of the largest vessels to utilise the facility – and certainly the largest to enter the dry dock in the last decade.
The 73,180 deadweight tonne vessel’s successful docking demonstrates the facility's operational capability and capacity to safely accommodate large, technically complex vessels serving international trade routes.
This milestone demonstrates the continued capability of one of Africa's oldest and strategic ship repair facilities whilst reflecting the impact of ongoing investment in modernising the Prince Edward Graving Dock. Recent infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of seven new capstans as part of TNPA's
R200 million modernisation initiative, have enhanced the dock's productivity and operational efficiency, enabling it to continue accommodating large commercial vessels.
Over the next 10 days, the Prince Edward Graving Dock will become a hub of specialised maritime activity as teams undertake essential maintenance, repairs and statutory inspections required for the vessel's continued operation.
The project will support employment across the ship repair value chain, sustain specialised maritime skills and create opportunities for contractors, equipment suppliers, logistics providers and numerous small and medium-sized enterprises.
“Continued investment in our infrastructure, including plans for a new graving dock and ship lift, will expand our ship repair capacity and ensure the port remains well positioned to meet future industry demand.”
“Every vessel entering Prince Edward Graving Dock is more than a maintenance project. It supports specialised maritime skills, creates jobs, strengthens local industries and reinforces Durban's reputation as a preferred ship repair destination. Continued investment in our infrastructure, including plans for a new graving dock and ship lift, will expand our ship repair capacity and ensure the port remains well positioned to meet future industry demand,” said Durban Port Manager Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana
Commissioned in 1924, Prince Edward Graving Dock remains one of Africa's most significant ship repair facilities. More than a century later, it continues to connect international shipping with local industrial capability, support employment and contribute to South Africa's maritime economy.
PHOTO: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has successfully docked the 228-metre Marshall Islands-flagged crude oil tanker Troy at the Port of Durban’s historic Prince Edward Graving Dock.
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