By
Laura Hyde |
MSC Cruises’ MSC Grandiosa has returned to service following a three-week drydock refurbishment at the Palumbo Shipyard in Malta.
The refurbishment project on the cruise line’s flagship vessel, which debuted in 2019, began when hydrojetting high technology robots were deployed to clean and prepare over 17,000 square metres of the hull for a fresh coat of specialised silicon-based paint. This paint was chosen to minimise drag as the ship moves through the water, which will lead to increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
A full overhaul was carried out on the two Azipods that enable MSC Grandiosa to manoeuvre smoothly. In compliance with the five-year maintenance protocol, the Azipods were inspected and repaired, with adjustments made to guarantee optimal performance and reliability in various sea conditions.
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The shipyard also carried out steelwork and pipework in various areas, including transom indentation repairs. Significant scaffolding work was also required within the ship’s theatre area in order for the shipyard’s team to carry out maintenance operations.
Over 17,000 square metres of the ship’s hull was covered with a specialised silicon-based paint
The ship’s lifeboats were inspected, sprayed and polished to maintain operational integrity. In addition, inspectors carried out rigorous overload testing of the lifeboats and rescue boat davits, verifying their ability to withstand operational stresses and meet safety standards for emergency use.
Various electrical motors throughout the 4,888-passenger ship were assessed, with any issues diagnosed and recalibrated and repaired as needed during the drydock.
MSC Grandiosa is the heaviest vessel ever docked in Dock 6 at the shipyard with a displacement of 86,000 tonnes.
“Through the refurbishment, the Palumbo Shipyard Malta team demonstrated their expertise in managing complex, multifaceted tasks within a tight timeframe,” said Luka Hrboka, head of sales at Palumbo Shipyards. “From hull treatment and structural steelwork to sophisticated testing of safety systems and electrical maintenance, each phase of the project was executed with precision and attention to detail. The project’s success underscores Palumbo Shipyard Malta’s dedication to quality, positioning it as a leader in maritime refit services and reinforcing its reputation as a reliable partner in the maritime industry.”
MSC Grandiosa is currently sailing a 16-day cruise from Genoa in Italy to Salvador de Bahia in Brazil. From December 2024 to April 2025, the ship will offer seven-night itineraries sailing between the ports of Santos, Salvador de Bahia and Maceió in Brazil.