Page 24 - 2024 - Q4 - Minerva in Focus

MINERVA IN FOCUS 27 Dry docking projects | Behind the scenes

The 2024 dry docking My name is Ilias Panagiotopoulos, and I have been a Marine Su-
perintendent with Minerva Dry for the past one and a half years.
projects of Minerva Dry With a background as a Captain Class A and extensive experience
in container vessels, I currently oversee a diverse fleet of bulk
have deepened carriers and containerships. Over the course of 2024, I had the
privilege of participating in several dry docking projects, which
our collective knowledge proved to be a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Minerva successfully completed several dry docking projects
across its fleet in 2024, showcasing our company’s commitment
to maintaining operational excellence and environmental com-
pliance. Among these, the following vessels of the Minerva Dry
fleet underwent dry docking:
Bulk Carriers:
• MV SCHINOUSA at Fujian Huadong
• MV PARAPOLA at Fujian Huadong
• M/V DOUKATO at XINYA
Containers:
• LITTLE DOLPHIN at XINYA
One of the most challenging dry docking projects involved two
bulk carriers, the “MV PARAPOLA” and the “MV SCHINOUSA”,
which required extensive steel renewal. The scope of work ex-
panded significantly, necessitating close coordination with the
classification society, shipyard, and third-party suppliers. Despite
these challenges, the project was completed on schedule without
compromising safety or quality.
Another demanding project involved the delivery of the sec-
ond-hand container vessel “LITTLE DOLPHIN”, which had to
undergo unscheduled dry docking. The tight schedule, combined
with a tropical storm affecting the Xinya region and the subse-
quent suspension of ferry transportation to the island, required
by Ilias Panagiotopoulos, meticulous planning and real-time problem-solving. Additionally,
Marine Superintendent, the concurrent change of management and transfer of class
Minerva Dry Inc. added further complexity to the operation. Nevertheless, our
efforts ensured the timely receipt of necessary spares and stores,
minimised costs, and avoided delays.
Reflecting on this year’s dry docking activities, several key les-
sons stand out:
• Thorough pre-docking planning and preparation:
Detailed planning and preparation are essential to mit-
igate delays and achieve optimal results. Proactively
requesting necessary materials, such as paints, wires,
and consumables, well in advance ensures their timely
availability. Additionally, conducting thorough pre-dry-
docking inspections enhances repair precision and re-
duces costs by incorporating identified needs into the
dry docking specification.
• Effective communication: Open communication with
the vessel’s Master and Chief Engineer, shipyard teams,
and suppliers promotes clarity and facilitates the swift
resolution of challenges, ensuring seamless coordination
throughout the project.
• Flexibility and problem-solving: The ability to adapt
to unforeseen complications, such as additional repair
work, is vital for maintaining schedules and controlling
budgets effectively.
2024 has been a testament to Minerva’s expertise and resilience
in dry docking operations. These projects have strengthened our
fleet and deepened our collective knowledge. I am proud to have
contributed to this success and look forward to applying these
lessons to future endeavours, ensuring Minerva continues to set
industry standards.

22 ISSUE 30 / Q4 2024