The 228-metre Marshall Islands-flagged crude oil tanker Troy has docked at the Port of Durban's Prince Edward Graving Dock, marking the first time a commercial vessel of its size has used the historic ship repair facility in more than a decade.
The tanker, with a breadth of 32.2 metres and a deadweight of 73 180 tonnes, ranked among the longest vessels ever to use the dock, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) said. The successful docking demonstrated the facility's ability to accommodate large, technically complex vessels operating on international trade routes, TNPA said.
Troy's arrival follows infrastructure upgrades at the dock, including the installation of seven new capstans as part of TNPA's R200 million modernisation programme. According to the ports authority, the upgrades have improved the dock's productivity and operational efficiency, enabling it to continue accommodating larger commercial vessels.
Over the next 10 days, specialist marine teams will carry out maintenance, repairs and mandatory statutory inspections required for the vessel's continued operation. TNPA said the project would support contractors, equipment suppliers, logistics providers and other businesses involved in the ship repair value chain.
Durban Port Manager Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana said the facility played an important role in supporting South Africa's maritime industry.
"Every vessel entering Prince Edward Graving Dock is more than a maintenance project. It supports specialised maritime skills, creates jobs, strengthens local industries and reinforces Durban's reputation as a preferred ship repair destination."
Continued investment in port infrastructure, including plans for a new graving dock and ship lift, would expand Durban's ship repair capacity and ensure the port remained well positioned to meet future industry demand, she said.
Commissioned in 1924, the Prince Edward Graving Dock remains one of Africa's oldest ship repair facilities and continues to support international shipping and South Africa's maritime industry.
