One partner for every underwater repair — from routine maintenance to tailor-made solutions

One partner for every underwater repair — from routine maintenance to tailor-made solutions

Ships encounter a wide range of technical challenges during their lifetime. Some are small and routine, while others require large-scale engineering and repair work. Having a partner that can handle both everyday underwater maintenance and complex repairs allows shipowners to solve problems quickly and keep their vessels operational.

This is where our teams come in. We assist shipowners worldwide with underwater maintenance and repair operations of every scale, from quick inspections or minor interventions to extensive structural repairs. In all cases, the goal is the same: solve the problem efficiently while avoiding unnecessary delays or costly drydock visits.

Small operations that keep vessels running

Many underwater operations are relatively small but still essential for keeping vessels operating safely and efficiently. These routine jobs are performed by our diver/technicians on a daily basis and are handled with the same professionalism as larger repair projects.

Hydrex diver/technician preparing blank for installation.

Typical examples include:

  • underwater inspections to assess the condition of a hull or propulsion system
  • installation or replacement of anodes
  • blanking of underwater openings such as sea chests or overboard valves
  • installation or replacement of speed logs and other transducers

Because these tasks can be performed underwater and on site, the vessel can remain in operation without schedule disruption. In many cases, the work is completed during cargo operations or short port calls.

Anode installation.

Major repairs below the waterline

In addition to routine maintenance, we regularly assist shipowners with major repairs below the waterline. These can involve propulsion components, hull structures, or other essential underwater systems.

Our teams can perform repairs to:

  • propellers and propulsion systems
  • bow thrusters and azimuth thrusters
  • rudders and steering gear components
  • stern tube seals and other sealing systems
  • damaged hull plating or structural cracks
Preparing bow thruster for installation during night shift.

These repairs are carried out by highly trained diver/technicians using specialized tools and procedures developed specifically for underwater work. The vessel can remain afloat while the repairs are performed, avoiding the time and cost associated with drydocking.

Inside our flexible mobdocks we can work in drydock-like conditions while the vessel stays afloat.

Tailor-made solutions for complex challenges

Not every problem has a standard solution. When vessels suffer significant damage or face unusual technical challenges, we develop custom repair methods and equipment to resolve the situation.

This may involve designing specialized tooling, creating tailor-made cofferdams, or engineering unique repair procedures that allow work to be performed safely underwater. Our teams have extensive experience handling these types of operations, combining practical diving expertise with engineering knowledge to deliver reliable results.

Three of our diver/welders during a complex hull operation.

Worldwide support when it matters most

Shipping is a global industry, and repairs are rarely convenient. That is why our diver/technician teams are ready to mobilize quickly to ports and anchorages around the world. By maintaining specialized equipment and trained personnel ready for deployment, we can respond rapidly when shipowners need assistance.

Welding training on the premises of the Hydrex headquarters.

Whether the task is a small inspection, routine maintenance, or a complex structural repair, the same principle applies: provide a practical solution that keeps the vessel operational and minimizes downtime.

Experience across the full spectrum of underwater work

From routine maintenance jobs carried out in a matter of hours to large-scale structural repairs requiring weeks of preparation and execution, we support shipowners across the entire spectrum of underwater work.

By combining technical expertise, specialized equipment, and worldwide mobilization capabilities, we can assist with virtually any challenge encountered below the waterline.

Reinstalling a rope guard with spectators.
If ever you need assistance with the underwater part of your vessel, give us a call. We can then tell you if the repair is feasible and start working on its handling.
 

+32 3 213 53 00
hydrex@hydrex.be

Click on the images below for more case studies.

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