How does a Shipyard Work? Understand the Structure and Processes

Have you ever wondered what happens to a ship when it needs repair? Behind every operational ship is a complex and highly specialised structure: the shipyard. A place where engineering, precision and coordination meet to keep the fleet moving.

The world of the naval industry can seem complex to those taking their first steps in this sector. In this article, we offer an introductory guide to understanding how does a shipyard works — from its main sectors to the processes involved in repairing and maintaining ships. Whether you’re a student, a budding professional or just curious, this reading will help you better understand the gears that turn behind the scenes of ship repair.

What is a Shipyard?

A shipyard is an infrastructure specialising in the construction, repair, maintenance and modernisation of ships. It can handle ships of different sizes — from small fishing vessels to large cargo or cruise ships.

Although many shipyards focus on shipbuilding, in this article we’ll focus on ship repair, a critical activity for ensuring the safety, efficiency and longevity of ships.

Main Sectors of a Shipyard

Dock or Repair Park

This is the space where ships are moored or raised for intervention. It can be a dry dock or repair yard, which allows the ship to be lifted out of the water, or a wet dock, where operations are carried out while the ship is still afloat.

2. Mechanical and Engine Workshop

This is where engines, generators, propulsion systems and mechanical components essential to the ship’s operation are serviced.

3. Metalworking Workshop

Responsible for structural work, welding, cutting, adjusting steel and other metals. Essential for repairs to the hull and internal structures.

4. Painting and Sandblasting Workshop

An area dedicated to surface treatment, from rust removal to the application of paint systems, including anti-fouling paints for underwater protection.

5. Electrical Workshop

Deals with the ship’s electrical and electronic systems: lighting, generators, control panels, sensors, etc.

6. Technical and Engineering Office

Team responsible for the planning, damage assessment and technical monitoring of all work carried out on the ship.

Main Stages of Ship Repair

1. Technical Assessment and Inspection

Before work begins, a detailed technical inspection is carried out. The team assesses the condition of the ship and draws up a list of necessary repairs.

2. Budgeting and Planning

Based on the inspection, costs and deadlines are calculated and the sequence of execution for the interventions is defined.

3. Carrying out the work

Each sector gets to work according to schedule, coordinating activities that can range from replacing parts to rebuilding structures.

4. Tests and checks

After the work has been completed, tests are carried out to ensure that the systems are fully functional and that the technical and safety standards have been met.

5. Handing over the ship

Once the repairs have been completed, the ship is returned to the owner with a technical report and often with recommendations for future maintenance.

Who Works at a Shipyard?

A shipyard brings together a multidisciplinary team:

Naval and mechanical engineers
Welders and boilermakers
Industrial electricians and painters
Safety and quality control technicians
Project managers and operational coordinators

Each professional plays an essential role in guaranteeing the quality, safety and efficiency of the services provided.

Importance of Shipyards for the Blue Economy

As well as creating jobs and boosting the maritime industry, shipyards play a central role in the sustainability of maritime transport. Through good environmental practices and advanced maintenance techniques, they contribute to reducing fuel consumption and pollutant emissions from ships.

A shipyard is much more than a place where ships are repaired — it is a real technical, logistical and human centre that keeps the maritime fleet moving. We hope this guide has helped clarify the basic workings of a shipyard and sparked interest in this strategic sector for coastal economies.

Would you like to know more about CABNAVE's work?

Explore our services or contact our technical team to find out more about our work in the ship repair sector in Cape Verde.