Damen Shiprepair has recently completed a remarkable drydock operation for the AIDA Cruises vessel, AIDAmar, which took place at their Botlek facility in Rotterdam. What made this project unique was that approximately 2,000 passengers remained on board during the ship’s annual bottom survey.
The AIDAmar, which measures 253 meters in length, set off from the German port of Warnemünde on July 3rd for a five-night cruise that included a 24-hour stop in Rotterdam. On July 5th, the ship entered Damen’s Drydock No.6, measuring 275 by 40.3 meters, where it was dewatered to facilitate the inspection of the underwater hull in line with survey requirements.
The shipyard explained that executing the technical work was routine, but the presence of passengers necessitated extensive planning and coordination. As an International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) compliant establishment, Damen Shiprepair implemented careful measures to ensure the safety and organization of passenger movement throughout the operation.
To enhance the experience for the guests, the shipyard hosted an exhibition showcasing the history of Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam along with previous projects they have undertaken for AIDA Cruises and its parent company, Carnival Corporation. A temporary viewing platform was built to allow guests to observe the drydock process, and wheelchair-accessible paths were established for passenger transport to excursions across the Netherlands. Each visitor also received a souvenir bag with Dutch-themed items, including clog-shaped keyrings and Damen-branded stroopwafels.
While accommodating passengers during a drydock operation is not part of Damen Shiprepair’s usual activities, the company was happy to assist AIDA Cruises in creating this unique opportunity. Despite the additional logistical challenges, the shipyard deemed the project a successful example of teamwork aimed at providing guests with a rare glimpse into ship repair operations.
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