Lloyd Werft, acquired by new owner Rönner-Zech Group last March, completed two significant drydock projects for AIDA Cruises last April and May, according to André Stegmann, senior sales manager at Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven.

The yard is also slated to work on Ambassador’s Ambition following a project on the cruise line’s other ship, the Ambience, in late December.

Stegmann said the company is in negotiations for various cruise projects at the moment, according to the 2023 Drydock and Refurbishment Report by Cruise Industry News.

He also revealed that they are seeing huge demand for refits now as the industry has returned to service and ships need regular maintenance.

“In addition, many cruise vessels have changed ownership. With it, there is a demand for having the ships converted for the new brand.”

The company has a system for managing the projects and ensuring their completion on time.

“With the current shortage of skilled workers, it is extremely important to have partnerships with reliable companies and an experienced in-house staff,” Stegmann said, add that the timeline for planning is different for every project.

“We are very proud to have arranged service for a cruise ship refit with two weeks’ notice in advance.”

However, Stegmann explained that for extensive projects, the planning starts up to a year in advance.

Lloyd Werft now has a total of 11 drydocks available.

“In addition, we increased the portfolio of in-house services a lot, which makes us much more independent from subcontractors.”

On the keys to success in managing refit projects, Stegmann said: “For an intensive refit project, the detailed planning of the project, a well-trained staff, and a reliable source of contractors are the keys to success. With an in-house design and project management team and a skilled production staff, we are extremely blessed being able to complete projects on time and to the quality and budget requested.”