Dry Docking HMAS ARUNTA: A Ship Lift Evolution
The dry docking of HMAS ARUNTA at BAE Shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia, demonstrated the precision, planning, and teamwork required for a successful ship-lift operation.
Before the Evolution
At 4:00 a.m., we reviewed weather and sea conditions, then confirmed with the harbor pilot. As Dock Master, I made the final decision to proceed.
By 6:00 a.m., the ship-lift platform had been lowered, safety briefings were completed, and docking crews were assigned to their stations.
Receiving the Ship
At 7:00 a.m., HMAS ARUNTA crossed the dock head, and the docking team took control of the vessel. The team passed mooring and handling lines, and the ship was carefully warped onto the lift platform.
By 7:55 a.m., the vessel was centered over the ship-lift cradle and ready to be lifted.
Lifting Operations
At 8:50 a.m., the platform was raised and divers prepared to verify hull alignment.
Before the dive began, nearby vessels secured their machinery, isolated cathodic protection systems, and completed safety checks. Divers confirmed the ship’s proper positioning on the cradle as lifting continued.
By 10:00 a.m., HMAS ARUNTA safely landed on the cradle and passed final underwater inspections.
Transfer to the Dry Berth
The ship lift continued to ground level, where the team completed final adjustments and inspections. Once cleared for transfer, the team moved the vessel to its assigned repair berth using the transfer system and, when required, the rotary table.
After arrival, we connected hotel services and began preparing for maintenance.
Reflection
The successful docking of HMAS ARUNTA reinforced a lesson I’ve learned throughout my career: safe, efficient dry-docking depends on preparation, communication, and disciplined execution. While equipment and technology matter, the docking team’s professionalism ultimately ensures success.