GPO Emerald Executes "Drydock of a Drydock" Operation via Panama Canal
GPO Heavylift successfully transported Seaspan's floating drydock "Careen" from Vancouver, Canada, to Batam, Indonesia, on behalf of Seaspan Shipyards. The GPO Emerald semi-submersible heavy-lift vessel performed the rare "drydock of a drydock" operation in February 2026, mobilizing through the Panama Canal for the Pacific transit.
Project Details
-
Cargo: Seaspan Careen floating drydock
-
Client: Seaspan Shipyards
-
Vessel: GPO Emerald
-
Route: Vancouver Harbour ➝ Batam, Indonesia (via Panama Canal)
-
Period: February 2026
Innovative Semi-Submersible Loading
In Burrard Inlet, GPO Emerald submerged her deck by 8-10 meters using precise ballasting, allowing the Careen to float directly onto the 48m-wide deck. Welding and securing followed over several days, visible from North Vancouver waterfronts. The vessel departed under cover of night, bound for upgrades at specialized Indonesian facilities before planned summer return.
Supporting Marine Infrastructure Upgrades
This project underscores GPO Heavylift's expertise in transporting oversized marine structures like drydocks, enabling Seaspan to maintain its vital role in repairing cruise ships, ferries, and vessels in the Pacific Northwest. The operation involved close coordination with Port of Vancouver authorities for safety and public viewing.
For more on GPO Heavylift's drydock and heavy-lift services, visit gpo-heavylift.com.