Subsea Solutions Alliance Performs Extraction of Four 25-Ton Stabilizer Fins

Advanced underwater extraction performed with vessel in service and without delay

Passenger vessels have the benefit of carrying cargo that self-propels itself on and off as well as around the vessel making it easy and efficient to load and unload the vessel. This cargo, however, has an interesting draw back; it’s unique ability to voice an opinion. As the “cargo” moves itself around the vessel at all times of the day and night enjoying the amenities of a floating resort, the vessel must remain a stable and secure platform. This requires passenger vessels to employ active stabilization systems with retractable fins that deploy when the weather or sea state requires. Just like all equipment on ships, these critical pieces of underwater equipment require maintenance and repair from time to time.

On two passenger vessels operating in Europe and subsequently in the Caribbean, some stabilizer fins onboard required overhaul and repair due to defects that were found after earlier underwater inspections performed by the Subsea Solutions Alliance. In order to optimize the time of repair and to have the fins available for reinstallation at the next scheduled dry docking interval, the Subsea Solutions Alliance was activated to perform the extraction of the fin stabilizers without taking the vessel out of service or causing any changes to the ship’s itinerary.

Being a global service provider with a fully integrated work force and shared equipment as well as having experience performing these types of equipment extractions, the Subsea Solutions Alliance member company Trident BV performed the preparatory work in Europe while the vessels journeyed on their Mediterranean itineraries. This involved installing the necessary rated pad eyes, incorporating the necessary structure for the installation specific rigging required for the removal of the 25-ton stabilizer fins. Maintaining class approved wet welding procedures and diver / technicians coded to a class “A” standard on staff, rated pad eyes could be welded and structural welds could be performed without restrictions.

Upon the vessel’s relocation to their Caribbean itinerary, the Subsea Solutions Alliance member company Miami Diver LLC picked up where Trident BV left off and completed the preparatory work for the removal of the four stabilizer fins. With all of the preparatory work completed, a 12-hour window was given to the fin extraction teams to remove each damaged stabilizer fin, remove the rigging and prepare the fin stabilizer crux to remain on board and out of service. Utilizing buoyancy control techniques, developed by the engineering department within the Subsea Solutions Alliance the fins were safely extracted one by one and brought to the surface within the required time line and with no negative impact to vessel operations in the port of extraction. With the fin stabilizers topside, they were shipped back to the Original Equipment Manufacturer for repair and full inspection.

Utilizing our global network of highly qualified diver / technicians demonstrated, YET AGAIN, the Subsea Solutions Alliance’s ability to perform the impossible. This project demonstrated our ability to manage projects globally utilizing resources from our closest location to perform a seamless integrated operation and utilizing our shared system of specialized equipment while keeping the vessel in service and project costs under control. We look forward to having the opportunity to perform similar projects for you. Give us a call and we would be happy to let you know what is possible “in the water”.

The Subsea Solutions Alliance (SSA) consists of the underwater ship repair specialists: All-Sea Enterprises Ltd, Miami Diver LLC, Parker Diving Service LLC and Trident BV. For additional information, please feel free to visit the web site of the Subsea Solutions Alliance at www.subseasolutions.com or contact Mr. Rick Shilling, Business Development and sales.