Tanker repair and conversion yards embrace complex retrofits

Capability is a competitive differentiator

As complexity increases, technical capability becomes a key market filter and Mr Babachinas was frank in his assessment: “If the yard is not capable of handling the required volume or lacks sufficient technical expertise, it simply drops out of the game.”

BLRT Repair Yards has positioned itself among those with both engineering depth and infrastructure scale – the company operates across Lithuania, Estonia and Finland, with seven docks, including the largest floating dock in the Baltics and one of the largest drydocks in Northern Europe. “Those who invest in development and keep pace with the industry stay competitive and win,” he said.

What owners are asking for

With the regulatory bar continually rising, energy-saving devices and fuel conversions dominate the work order.

“The most in-demand modifications include the installation of preswirl stators, propeller boss cap fins and engine optimisation,” said Mr Babachinas.

There is also growing interest in conversions for methanol, biofuels, and, looking ahead, ammonia. Hybrid power systems and battery installations, particularly for manoeuvring and port operations, are also gaining traction.

Digital tools become standard

Digital technologies are now deeply embedded in the drydock and repair cycle.

Mr Babachinas said remote inspections are increasingly used to eliminate the need for a physical surveyor, saving time and cost.

Meanwhile, digital twins support wear monitoring and predictive maintenance, helping to plan drydocks more effectively.

“Advanced diagnostics help identify components that actually need replacement versus those that can remain in operation,” he added.

What lies ahead

Looking forward, Mr Babachinas sees alternative fuel conversions as a clear frontier, especially for ammonia and hydrogen.

Wind-assisted propulsion systems, such as the VentoFoil sails already deployed by Anthony Veder, are also expected to proliferate. Developments in onboard automation and energy management will play an increasing role in retrofit scopes.

An additional area of future importance is additive manufacturing, “3D printing has the potential to change how we approach the repair of certain components, right at port or even on board the vessel,” he said.

While not yet mainstream, such innovations are being closely watched for their capacity to reduce downtime and streamline parts logistics.

For the tanker industry, retrofits are no longer limited to lifespan extension – they are fast becoming a strategic response to regulatory and operational demands.

BLRT Repair Yards’ experience reflects a broader shift: owners must now treat repair yards as long-term partners in decarbonisation.

As Mr Babachinas observed, “Market dynamics dictate the rules now, and we, as industry players, must be fully prepared.”

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