The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has launched an Extended Dry-Docking (EDD) scheme for qualifying UK vessels, following a successful controlled trial.
A container vessel enters dry dock.
New rules from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) enable qualifying UK vessels to undergo a single dry-dock over the course of seven and a half years (90 months).
Extended Dry-Docking (EDD) vessels will be exempt from a requirement for two dry-dockings during the normal five-year cycle, on completion of two consecutive In-Water Surveys (IWS).
EDD applies to new ships or for vessels up to 15 years old from date of build. For vessels already in service, the exemption can be implemented until a ship reaches 10 years of age from build.
The scheme is open to self-propelled, internationally trading vessels of 500GT or more, including, among others: container carriers, LNG/LPG tankers, Ro-Ro cargo ships, and livestock carriers. High-speed craft, passenger vessels, feeder vessels and those on Enhanced Survey Programmes are not included.
Eligible vessel owners must hold appropriate class approval and apply via Merchant Shipping Form (MSF) 6570. Upon successful application, an Extended Dry-Docking Certificate of Entry (MSF 1142) and UK Exemption will be issued by MCA Survey Operations.
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