Boatnerd Discussion Forum

I don't think there are major problems with ice between the hull and dock blocks.

When the dock is filled to float one vessel out there's not a lot of ice in there - only ice that forms in the surface as the water floods the dock. The boat coming into the dock could have ice on the bottom of it if it hasn't been moving or had ice prevention measures taken. They use compressed air bubbler tubes around some of the berths are Bay Ship which keeps the water under and around the hull disturbed so that ice can't form.

The footers which came in this year, PRT going straight on dock, may have had ice under the hull, but since it had been running there shouldn't be much.

Assuming the bottom of the hull is clear when the boat gets put in the dock, there's no way ice to get between the bottom of the hull and the dock blocks.

There will be chunks of ice on the surface around the boat which will stay in the dock as it's pumped out. Those chunks get pushed out of the way with front loaders/Bobcats/etc once the dock is dry.

Good morning from the polar United States where every corner of this land is experiencing cold temps and snow! Fascinated regarding ice conditions locally and in Sturgeon Bay where the Barker and PRT were delayed by the ice. Curious on how the ice in the graving dock/dry dock does not hinder the removal and insertion of the footers when exchanging places. Do they remove big chunks for ice with excavators for proper placement and alignment? The keel blocks stay the same for the footers so those adjustments are set. It is some impressive tug work to maneuver a dead ship in restrictive conditions vs open water. Glad the crew are closer to home now along side and in the graving dock. I am sure their "I can't take this anymore" patience was stretched to the limits waiting to discharge. Any pictures of the graving docks would be appreciated. Rest up crews, you have earned a break!