Morska Stocznia Remontowa (Repair Shipyard) Gryfia is preparing for radical changes, with the introduction of a new floating dock at the forefront. The Szczecin-based yard is gearing up both infrastructurally and organisationally to enter a new phase of operations.

Late last summer, one phase of a project designed to position Gryfia for the future was completed: the deep basin that will host the new floating dock in 2027. This 235-metre dock is a cornerstone of the programme, enabling the yard to accommodate far larger vessels than previously possible.

“We are ready to receive the new floating dock at any time. It will be the largest in Gryfia, with a lifting capacity of 24,000 tonnes, capable of handling any of the largest ships that can enter the Port of Szczecin,” said Lech Lechmański, a board member at Gryfia.

The dock itself is being constructed across the Oder River at Stocznia Szczecińska Wulkan, part of the same corporate group. From Gryfia’s quays, two of the planned three dock modules are already visible. If Wulkan keeps to schedule, both are expected to be launched this spring.

“The dock is scheduled for completion in July 2027, coinciding with Gryfia’s 75th anniversary. From the day after its commissioning, we plan to handle Panamax-type vessels,” Lechmański said. “We are entering the ship repair top tier. Currently, we can take vessels up to 40–50,000 DWT. Once the new dock is operational, we will be able to accommodate ships of 80,000 DWT — truly large vessels, major repairs, and bigger shipowners.”

Lechmański noted that shipowners are already anticipating the new infrastructure. Gryfia has been actively promoting the upcoming capabilities, attracting interest from both regular clients and operators who have not previously worked with the yard.

The dock is only one part of Gryfia’s broader strategy. “To fully leverage the yard’s potential, internal restructuring is also underway,” Lechmański said. “We are approaching 2026 with optimism. With support from our owner, the Fundusz Rozwoju Spółek (Development Fund of Companies), we are improving processes, investing in assets, and implementing a wide-ranging reorganisation.”

Results are already visible. The yard has significantly reduced electricity and gas costs by signing more favourable two-year contracts with suppliers. “We expect a 30% reduction in energy bills,” Lechmański added. “All these measures are designed to improve current operations and prepare for the introduction of the floating dock, which we are confident will enhance Gryfia’s position both in Szczecin and in terms of its reputation across Europe and globally.”

Meanwhile, Gryfia’s quays are far from idle. During the interview, work was underway on a gas carrier, tankers, and cement carriers for a German operator.

“Cooperation with Szczecin-based shipowners is going very well. We are expecting units from Unibaltic, with confirmed vessels from EuroAfrica. In April, the ferry Epsilon will arrive, followed by additional vessels,” Lechmański said. He also noted that the ferry Mazovia from Polska Żegluga Bałtycka had recently left the yard.

The shipyard schedule also includes two large gas carriers from a Western European operator, the first arriving in April.

“The nature of ship repair means long-term contracts are rare, so it is always positive to have confirmed clients and vessels scheduled for the coming months. That is the case right now — the docks are full,” Lechmański concluded.