- MCA has formalized the Extended Dry-Docking (EDD) scheme, allowing qualifying vessels to dry-dock once in 7.5 years instead of twice in 5 years.
- Eligible ships must meet strict technical, operational, and company performance requirements to enter and remain in the program.
- EDD does not alter statutory or renewal survey timelines, and vessels are automatically withdrawn once they reach 15 years of age.
- The scheme is closely monitored by the MCA, with reviews at every In-Water Survey and possible withdrawal for non-compliance.
Extended Dry-Docking (EDD) has now been formalized by the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), enabling qualifying vessels to replace two standard dockings in five years with a single docking over a seven-and-a-half-year period. The decision follows a successful trial phase and reflects advancements in paint systems and inspection technology, according to GOV.UK.
Regulatory Framework and Extended Dry-Docking
International conventions and UK legislation set specific requirements for ship bottom inspections. Under SOLAS 74/78, Chapter I Regulation 10(a)(v), cargo vessels must undergo at least two inspections of the ship’s bottom within every five-year period. While the regulation does not explicitly require dry-docking for both inspections, the UK Merchant Shipping (Survey and Certification) Regulations 2015 stipulate that these inspections must take place out of the water at intervals not exceeding 36 months. Certain exceptions are outlined, but bulk carriers and oil tankers remain outside the scope of this guidance, and vessels over 15 years of age are excluded.
Extended Dry-Docking (EDD) modifies this framework by allowing eligible ships to be dry-docked once every seven and a half years, instead of the standard two dockings within five years. To qualify, vessels must complete two consecutive In-Water Surveys (IWS) during the intervening period, in accordance with MGN 546(M). The scheme applies until a vessel reaches 15 years of age, and for ships already in service, it may be adopted anytime before reaching 10 years. The current rules will remain in effect until the planned review of the Survey and Certification Regulations in 2027.
Eligibility for EDD is limited to specific vessel types of 500GT or more engaged in international trade, including container ships, LNG and LPG carriers, Ro-Ro cargo vessels, refrigerated cargo ships, wood chip carriers, cement carriers, livestock carriers, deck cargo ships, certain general dry cargo ships with double-side skin construction, and MODUs. However, several vessel categories are excluded from consideration, such as ships subject to the Enhanced Survey Programme, feeder vessels, high-speed craft, vessels with propulsion thrusters or ice notation, ships with keyed taper shaft connections, and all passenger ships, including Ro-Ro passenger vessels.
Entry Requirements, Reviews, and Application for Extended Dry-Docking
To enter the Extended Dry-Docking (EDD) program, vessels must meet a detailed set of conditions. These include holding the correct class notations for EDD and In-Water Survey (IWS), being of an eligible vessel type, and operating under approved systems for hull and machinery maintenance, screwshaft condition monitoring, and continuous survey cycles.
Ships must also carry a high-quality hull coating designed for extended service life, demonstrate strong company performance under Port State Control or USCG regimes, and maintain a low-risk profile within the UK Fleet Risk Matrix. Additional technical requirements cover accessibility for underwater inspections, maintenance of thrusters and stabilizers while afloat, provisions for sea valve examinations, and protective coatings in ballast and void spaces. Vessels with past detentions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
EDD does not alter the timing of statutory, machinery, or renewal surveys, and enrolled vessels are automatically removed once they reach 15 years. No deferrals are allowed beyond the 7.5-year docking interval, and any significant findings during IWS may require an immediate dry-dock inspection. In the case of grounding or other bottom damage, the MCA must be informed, and attendance may be required. The agency continues to review the scheme based on performance reports and evolving regulations.
The application process involves submitting the official MSF 6570 form, completed jointly by the company and its Recognised Organisation, to MCA Survey Operations or the designated Customer Service Manager. Successful applicants receive an Extended Dry-Docking Certificate of Entry (MSF 1142) and a UK exemption notice.
Ships previously enrolled under the trial scheme will be transitioned to the certificate system at their next IWS. All applications and related services are subject to fees under the Merchant Shipping (Fees) Regulations 2018.
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Source: GOV.UK
