Durban drydock receives largest tanker in more than a decade

The Marshall Islands-flagged Troy has become the largest tanker to enter the Port of Durban's Prince Edward Graving Dock in more than a decade, marking a significant milestone for South Africa's ship repair sector following recent infrastructure upgrades.

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) successfully docked the 228-m crude oil tanker at the historic facility this week. With an extreme breadth of 32.2m and a deadweight of 73,180 tonnes, the vessel ranks among the largest ships ever serviced at the graving dock.

TNPA said the docking demonstrates the facility's ability to handle large and technically demanding commercial vessels operating on international trade routes. The call is also being viewed as an early indicator of the benefits arising from a wider modernisation programme valued at ZAR 200 million (EUR 10.45 million), which has been undertaken to revitalise the dock. Recent upgrades include the installation of seven new capstans aimed at improving productivity and operational efficiency.

The vessel is expected to remain in the dock for approximately ten days while undergoing statutory inspections, maintenance and technical repairs. TNPA said the project will support activity across Durban's maritime supply chain, creating demand for engineering services, equipment suppliers, logistics providers and specialist contractors.

Durban port manager Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana said: "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."

TNPA also confirmed plans for further investment, including proposals for a new graving dock and ship lift, to increase repair capacity and support future demand at the port.