A successful dry dock starts with a plan
Going into a dry dock project without a thorough plan is a risk. A pre-inspection and detailed preparation can make all the difference in getting the project on track from the start.
Scope is defined. Timelines are aligned. Resources are prepared. That level of preparation is the foundation for delivering reliable service throughout the project.
However, we know that even with a strong plan, conditions change once the work begins.
“In these projects, it’s not that the plan is wrong. It’s that reality doesn’t always follow it exactly,” explains Lifeboat Service Manager Jeroen Pol. “Things shift. Parts don’t arrive as expected. Or something turns out differently on board.”
Complexity is part of the process
For 5-year surveys, complexity is the norm. Multiple equipment types and brands, mandatory replacements, and tight schedules all need to come together within a limited window.
“You are dealing with a mix of equipment, and that means you need the right people, the right competence and certifications, and the right spare parts in place at the right time,” says Jeroen.
What matters is how well this complexity is managed. At VIKING, that is exactly what we take responsibility for.
Clear communication reduces pressure
Behind the scenes, many teams and disciplines are involved. For the customer, the process must remain simple.
“From the customer’s perspective, it is and should be very clear. They have one point of contact and a clear schedule,” Jeroen explains.
This reduces coordination effort and creates transparency throughout the project.
“You are dealing with a mix of equipment, and that means you need the right people, the right competence and certifications, and the right spare parts in place at the right time”
Jeroen Pol, Service Manager Lifeboat Service at VIKING
Fast response keeps the project moving
Even with thorough preparation, unexpected situations occur.
Missing or incorrect spare parts. Changes in scope. Conditions that differ from expectations. Unexpected dependencies.
“These things happen. Proactive planning can go a great distance. But it is equally important to be able to react fast and solve it,” says Jeroen.
Handled quickly and with the right expertise, these challenges are resolved without disrupting the overall schedule.
A setup designed for complex projects
Handling complex dry docks requires more than local coordination.
A dedicated Special Periodic Survey team takes ownership of planning, coordination, and communication across the full project. From early planning to final delivery, the team ensures that the work is completed and aligned with the agreed schedule.
This setup allows for fast escalation when needed, whether the challenge is technical, time-critical, or involves multiple equipment types and brands.
For the customer, it means one point of contact, a clear process, and confidence that issues will be handled without delay.
What this means in practice
Complex dry docks will always involve uncertainty. At VIKING, the focus is on handling that complexity in a structured and reliable way.
With detailed planning, a single point of contact, and a dedicated team that takes ownership from start to finish, the process remains controlled throughout.
For the customer, this means less coordination, fewer interruptions, and confidence that the work will be completed as planned.