Underwater bow thruster removal in Rotterdam

Last month a Hydrex team removed a bow thruster from a 170-meter container ship. This was done during a stop in Rotterdam. The unit needed to be overhauled and the operation had to be carried out within a very short window that would fit the schedule available to the vessel’s owner.

The team mobilized to the ship’s location using one of our workboats loaded with all the needed equipment. These workboats are stationed in Antwerp and Rotterdam and can be used for a wide range of operations . This enables rapid deployment. It also increases flexibility, which was essential during an operation like this.

After the team set up a monitoring station, the divers started the operation with a detailed inspection of the bow thruster and tunnel. In the meantime, initial preparations were made in the bow thruster engine room for the removal of the unit so that there would be no ingress of water once it was taken out.

By performing the operation on-site and underwater our divers made it possible for the owner to keep the vessel out of drydock. Our team worked in shifts around the clock. They finished the job well within the available time frame. This allowed the ship to sail on schedule, which was a key benefit for the owner.