Gibdock completes renewal work on Technip’s Deep Blue
Technip's Deep Blue Revitalized at Gibdock
Gibdock, a prominent ship repair yard in Gibraltar, has successfully completed a major refurbishment of Technip’s flagship vessel, Deep Blue. This specialized pipelay and subsea construction ship was relocated from the U.S. Gulf for essential repairs and upgrades, ensuring its readiness for future offshore projects. The extensive work undertaken at Gibdock highlights the yard’s commitment to maintaining high standards in vessel maintenance and repair.
Comprehensive Repairs and Upgrades
During the scheduled drydocking, Gibdock performed a variety of critical tasks to enhance Deep Blue‘s operational capabilities. The repairs included steel and piping renewal, hull and tank surface blasting, recoating, and machinery overhauls. These efforts are designed to keep the vessel in optimal condition for the next five years, allowing it to continue its vital role in ultra-deepwater field developments.
Deep Blue is equipped with advanced reel-lay, J-lay, and flexi-lay technologies, featuring twin reels with a capacity of 2,800 tonnes. This enables the vessel to lay pipes and cables at depths of up to 3,000 meters, making it an invaluable asset in the offshore industry. To facilitate the repairs, the vessel was raised 3.7 meters and positioned on 428 blocks in Gibdock’s Dock No. 1, allowing for the removal and overhaul of its eight thrusters.
John Taylor, managing director of Gibdock, expressed pride in the collaboration with Technip, stating, “Our team’s expertise and dedication ensure that we consistently deliver high-quality maintenance and repair services to meet the technical demands of complex offshore vessels while upholding the highest standards of safety and operational excellence.” The project engaged around 600 personnel, reflecting the scale and importance of the assignment.
Future Prospects and Ongoing Demand
The completion of work on Deep Blue marks a continuation of Gibdock’s busy schedule, which has been bolstered by strong demand for seasonal ferry work. Following the departure of Deep Blue, another pipelayer from a different offshore owner is set to enter the dock, demonstrating the yard’s ongoing appeal to leading clients in the offshore sector. Additionally, Gibdock is currently overhauling a jack-up platform destined for Australian waters.
John Barnard, commercial director at Gibdock, highlighted the importance of collaboration with clients, stating, “This was a highly successful project and an excellent example of the benefits of close collaboration with the client on planning and open dialogue throughout.” He emphasized Gibdock’s strategic location and experienced team as key factors in attracting offshore vessel maintenance and repair work.
With a diverse portfolio that includes containerships, LNG carriers, bulk carriers, ferries, cruise ships, yachts, and defense vessels, Gibdock continues to be a preferred choice for offshore customers worldwide. Barnard noted, “Our experience is that once these highly discerning clients use Gibdock, they choose us again as opportunities arise.”
