Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Dry Dock

Diveworks International delivers underwater inspection in lieu of dry dock services across the South Coast of the UK. Our UWILD inspections on the South Coast help ship owners, managers, and operators maintain class compliance, reduce vessel downtime, and keep projects moving efficiently. We are primarily mobilised from Portland Port, one of the UK’s best-known locations for approved in-water survey activity.

Class-approved in-water surveys for commercial vessels

We carry out Class In-Water Surveys (IWS) for leading classification societies, including RINA, Bureau Veritas (BV), and DNV. These underwater vessel inspections assess the condition of the hull and other critical components while the vessel remains afloat. As a result, owners can demonstrate compliance with class requirements without the immediate cost and delay of dry docking.

A typical UWILD or Class IWS carried out by Diveworks International includes a detailed inspection of the following areas:

* Sea chests and gratings
* Vessel hull condition
* Bilge keels
* Shaft wear‑down measurements
* Propellers and rudders
* Rudder pintle clearances and condition

These surveys are often essential for classed vessels because they help confirm structural integrity, seaworthiness, and ongoing compliance with classification society standards. In many cases, a well-planned in-water survey can reduce off-hire time and support faster return to service.

Conditional surveys at point of sale

Alongside routine UWILD work, we also complete conditional surveys at point of sale. These inspections are often carried out with the attending class surveyor on site to verify specific issues or operating conditions before departure. This gives vessel operators a clear, practical assessment that supports both certification and operational decision-making.

Recent UWILD inspection projects

Our recent in-water inspection work demonstrates our ability to deliver reliable UWILD services on large commercial vessels operating from the South Coast.

• MV Sapianza — a 140-metre bulk carrier that underwent a comprehensive UWILD inspection and was successfully recertified by class following a detailed underwater survey.

• Gemini Pearl — a 183-metre chemical and oil products tanker that also completed a successful Class In-Water Survey before returning to operational service under new ownership.

These completed projects show how Diveworks International safely delivers complex underwater inspections within tight operational schedules. They also highlight our experience in supporting vessel owners who need efficient survey delivery without unnecessary delay.

Experienced UWILD diving teams

UWILD inspections require experienced commercial divers with a strong understanding of vessel construction, classification requirements, and underwater inspection methods. Because the work is highly specialised, it demands technical knowledge, sound judgement, and disciplined execution in challenging conditions.

Diveworks International uses surface-supplied diving systems for UWILD operations to maintain strong communications, reliable gas supply redundancy, and full compliance with commercial diving regulations. Even when underwater visibility is poor, our teams work methodically to complete accurate vessel inspections to the required class standard.