Hydrex divers reinstall bow thruster during Rotterdam port call

Hydrex has completed the underwater re-installation of a bow thruster on a 170m-long container ship during its call in Rotterdam, avoiding the need for drydock and associated schedule disruption.

After setting up a monitoring station alongside the vessel, divers carried out a detailed inspection of the bow thruster tunnel while preparations were made inside the thruster room. Because the unit had been fully assembled in advance, it could be installed underwater as a complete system, eliminating the need to create a dry environment in the tunnel.

The diver/technicians lowered the thruster into the water, manoeuvred it into position, secured it in the tunnel and completed the connections to the internal systems. The work concluded with the removal of pad eyes and reinstallation of the tunnel grids.

The team operated in continuous shifts to complete the project within the vessel’s port window, enabling it to depart on schedule. Hydrex said that such underwater operations require careful coordination, experienced personnel and specialised equipment to ensure safety and accuracy.

The company noted that completing the installation without drydock saved the owner both time and cost while maintaining the ship’s operational commitments.