Transnet has welcomed one of the largest vessels in more than a decade, strengthening South Africa’s ship repair industry, maritime skills and local economic activity.
The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has successfully docked the 228-metre crude oil tanker Troy at the Port of Durban’s historic Prince Edward Graving Dock, marking the first vessel of its size to use the facility in more than a decade.
Flying the Marshall Islands flag, the tanker measures 228 metres in length, 32.2 metres in width and has a deadweight capacity of 73,180 tonnes, making it one of the largest vessels ever accommodated at the historic ship repair facility.
The successful docking highlights the impact of ongoing investment in modernising the Prince Edward Graving Dock, including the installation of seven new capstans as part of TNPA’s R200 million infrastructure upgrade programme. The improvements have enhanced operational efficiency while enabling the facility to safely service larger and more technically complex commercial vessels.
Over the next 10 days, specialist teams will carry out maintenance, repairs and statutory inspections required for the vessel’s continued operation. The project is expected to support employment across the maritime value chain while creating opportunities for contractors, equipment suppliers, logistics providers and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Commissioned in 1924, the Prince Edward Graving Dock remains one of Africa’s most significant ship repair facilities. More than a century later, it continues to connect international shipping with South African industrial capability while supporting jobs, specialist skills and economic growth.
Durban Port Manager Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana said every vessel entering the dock delivers benefits that extend beyond ship maintenance.
“Every vessel entering Prince Edward Graving Dock is more than a maintenance project. It supports specialised maritime skills, creates jobs, strengthens local industries and reinforces Durban’s reputation as a preferred ship repair destination. Continued investment in our infrastructure, including plans for a new graving dock and ship lift, will expand our ship repair capacity and ensure the Port remains well positioned to meet future industry demand.”
The successful docking of Troy demonstrates Durban’s growing capability to service large international vessels while reinforcing South Africa’s position as an important maritime maintenance and repair hub on global shipping routes.
