Damen looking to reap benefit of dry dock investment

The prime position of Curaçao in the southern Caribbean has made it an ideal location for drydocking services. Damen Shiprepair Curaçao (DSCu) has recently expanded its operations with the acquisition of two new floating docks. We asked DSCu managing director Lodewijk Franken how the company was taking advantage of its new facilities. 

Q. Are both your new floating docks (C and D) now in operation?

A. Yes. From the day the docks were ready to operate, we were able to dock a repair project in each dock thanks to our Damen worldwide sales network.

Q. By how much has your repair capacity in Curaçao been expanded with the coming of the new docks?

A. One hundred per cent. Damen Shiprepair Curaçao expanded from a shiprepair yard with two floating docks and 500 meters of quay, upgraded to a yard with four docks (two graving, two floating) and 600 meters of quay.

Q. With four docks now available for repairs, will that give you the combined capacity you need to meet the expected demands of customers in the foreseeable future?

A. Absolutely. With the dock capacity expansion, DSCu has more availability and more flexibility to offer its services and offer a dock slot for passing vessels that need urgent repairs, class renewals or major overhauls. Supported by over 90 years of Damen and CDM experience, this will give us the competitive edge that makes it an attractive location to maneuver to.

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