Damen Shiprepair Harbour & Voyage completes rapid repair of critical components for AIDAsol
- Date
- 26 February 2023
- Ship name
- Aidasol
- Ship type
- Sea Cruise
- Yard
- Damen Shiprepair Harbour & Voyage
- Tasks performed for this project
- Harbour and Voyage Repair
When 253.3-metre cruise ship AIDAsol arrived in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, on 26 February 2023, her more than 2,000 passengers were enjoying their vacation. Behind the scenes, however, the vessel had experienced a broken crankshaft – a critical failure requiring immediate attention.
Short window
Damen Shiprepair Harbour & Voyage (DSHV) was called in to replace the crankshaft during a brief, 48-hour port window, without disruption to guests and onboard operations. It was a project that called for precision, speed, close coordination, and flexibility.
DSHV mobilised a team of specialists to work closely together with both client and subcontractors. The team made extensive preparations, enabling work to commence as soon as the vessel arrived on location.
Flexible approach
Access to and removal of the broken crankshaft required removal of sections of the engine room floor. This was undertaken in a careful manner, mindful of critical piping and cabling.
With the floor sections out of the way, the team lifted and guided the crankshaft through confined spaces. During this phase of the operation, it became apparent that an unforeseen obstacle required a rapid adjustment in planning.
Displaying characteristic DSHV flexibility, the team temporarily modified internal structures, creating the space required to keep things moving according to schedule.
Round the clock
DSHV worked round the clock to meet the tight deadline. The crankshaft was removed overnight. This was immediately followed by installation of the replacement component, in reverse sequence.
While the crankshaft was being positioned, the team simultaneously replaced the engine room floor, ensuring efficient progress. As a result, the project was undertaken safely, swiftly and in line with the operational requirements of the vessel.
Reliable results
The project serves as a clear example of DSHV’s ability to execute complex work scopes within a tight timeframe, including when working in a live environment and without interruption.
It also testifies to DSHV’s ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges as they arise, ensuring reliable, high-quality results.