SHIP RUDDER REMOVAL

Experience shows that rudder damage very often requires extensive repairs, leading to major costs for shipowners and their hull and machinery underwriters. It may also result in a major loss of hire claim.

Initially it may be hard to determine the extent of damage, and when dry-docking is required the availability of a suitable shipyard is crucial for the repair progress.

During passage on Suez Canal a very big container ship suddenly blocked the canal and next thing we know we are in deep trouble, with a Suez Canal pilot on board our ship touch the ground. Problems with the steering were noticed immediately. The rudder did not respond to the bridge control and the vessel had to be towed to a safe anchorage. Subsequent examination by divers showed that the rudder was misaligned by about 27 degrees, and dry-docking was required for repairs.