Orskov Yard repairs damaged thruster without docking cement carrier Shetland

Orskov Yard has completed a fast turnaround repair on the cement carrier Shetland by removing and restoring its damaged bow thruster blades without drydocking. The Dutch flagged vessel was built in 2019 and is owned by JT Cement AS with technical management by MF Shipping Group.

The ship had visited Orskov Yard for dry docking earlier this year. On this occasion, the vessel required urgent thruster work to avoid the costs of tug assistance in ports. Instead of docking, the yard trimmed the vessel and berthed it alongside the quay, removing the vessel’s damaged blade while it remained afloat.

VMS Group carried out the repair, welding and restoring the blades at its nearby facilities, and subsequently reinstalling the thruster along with the protective grid, reinforced for future reliability.

Estimated to be six days in duration, the job was completed in four. Orskov Yard said the case shows the importance of flexibility and local partnerships. The yard said its ability to adapt and respond quickly helps customers maintain schedules and avoid delays, ensuring that the Shetland was able to resume service without major disruption.