‘CT and Saldanha favoured as ship-repair centres’

“Vessels like ore carriers that use the shipping route around the southern tip of Africa between the East and the West are favouring Cape Town and Saldanha Bay for their repairs and maintenance,” says Linda Newby, manager of Turners Shipping in Cape Town. “Stopovers can be costly so it is essential that the required spares and equipment are available as and when they are needed,” Newby added. Turners Shipping represents a number of ship repair companies ensuring the spares are cleared through customs and that all the required documentation, duties and customs requirements are met to avoid any unnecessary delays. The type of freight being handled differs enormously. “It can be anything from small electronic components to very large machinery,” Newby said. Recently Turners assisted LBH with the clearance and delivery of a replacement part which weighed over 150 tonnes required for a ship in the Cape Town harbour. The bulk carrier Magsenger 2 was on its maiden voyage from Shanghai when it experienced engine difficulties and was towed into Cape Town. The bottom half of the ship’s engine had to be replaced. The new part was manufactured in China and shipped to South Africa. “This was a massive undertaking as it required specialised cranes and handling equipment because of the size and weight of the part,” says Newby. “This was an unusual project with special logistical requirements which we were able to deliver.”