Underwater Damage Inspection Kamsar

When a ship touches the bottom, strikes a berth or is hit by another vessel, the first question is always the same: how bad is the damage under the water? An underwater damage inspection in Kamsar answers that question quickly, with video, photographs and measurements, while the ship is still afloat. The result gives the master, owner, class society and insurers the facts they need to decide whether the ship can sail, needs temporary repair or must go to a yard.

When a Damage Inspection Is Needed

The Kamsar approaches and the Rio Nunez estuary have shifting depths, and Bauxite Carriers loaded to a deep Draft have little margin. Light grounding, contact with fenders and berth structures, collision with tugs or barges, and anchor chain damage during a swing at the anchorage area can all affect the hull. Even if the crew feels only a slight bump, plating can be dented, coating torn or a weld cracked. An inspection is the only way to be sure.

How We Assess Damage

• The Diver surveys the whole bottom and both sides in a planned pattern, not only the area where contact was suspected.
• CCTV and photographs record dents, scrapes, cracks, holes, buckling and coating loss, each with a scale.
• Where steel appears distorted, local cleaning is carried out and Thickness Measurement is taken around the damage.
• Propeller, rudder, sea chests, bilge keels and anodes are examined, as contact often damages the stern gear.
• A damage sketch on the hull plan shows position, size and depth of each finding.

Evidence for Class and Insurers

IACS member societies normally require a damage survey after grounding or contact, and they will want to see the condition of the structure before allowing the ship to continue trading. P&I clubs and hull underwriters need the same evidence for claims. Our reports are neutral and factual: we describe what is seen and measured, we do not assign cause or liability, and we keep original files unaltered so that the record can be relied upon later.

Temporary Solutions

Many damages can be dealt with in the water. Small cracks may be stopped by drilling, minor leaks sealed with patches or underwater welded plates, and exposed steel protected until the next dry-docking. We discuss the options with the class surveyor and the owner, and we propose only those that the society is willing to accept. Larger damage is documented fully, so that the shipyard can start planning before the ship arrives.

Speed Matters at Kamsar

Every hour at the berth or anchorage costs the owner money, and the loading programme of a bauxite terminal does not wait. We aim to attend promptly, deliver a preliminary summary on the day of the inspection and issue the full report within 24 to 48 hours. Photographs and video can be shared with the owner, the manager and the surveyor as soon as they are available.

Report a Damage Event

Contact KamsarUnderwater.com with the ship's name, class, the event and the current location. We will mobilise the dive team and agree the survey scope with the surveyor.

What to Do Before the Diver Arrives

While waiting for the Diver, the crew can help. Record the time and position of the event, sound all tanks and spaces, take the draft and trim, check for leaks and keep the pumps ready. Do not move the ship unless safety requires. Prepare plans of the damaged area and note the last survey dates. This information lets the Diver go straight to the likely damage and helps the surveyor and insurers understand the event.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How soon after grounding should an inspection be done?

As soon as safely possible, normally before the ship sails and ideally within 24 hours, so that damage is documented in its original state.

Q2. How is hull damage measured underwater?

Dent depth and length are measured with a ruler or gauge, and plate thickness around the damage is measured with an ultrasonic gauge to a resolution of 0.1 mm.

Q3. Can a cracked plate be repaired afloat?

Often temporary repairs such as crack stop-drilling, patches or welded doublers can be made afloat, subject to class approval. Permanent repair normally needs a dry dock.

Q4. How long does a full damage survey take?

About 1 to 2 working days for a Supramax or Panamax, or 3 to 6 hours for a targeted inspection of one area.

Q5. Is a class surveyor required to attend?

For damage affecting class, the society normally attends or reviews the evidence. We coordinate with the surveyor and provide live CCTV if required.