Carnival Vista will undergo one of the most unique drydocks as Carnival Cruise Line deals with propulsion issues that have plagued the vessel in recent weeks. After having to alter a number of itineraries due to azipod problems that impacted the cruising speed of the vessel, Carnival Vista will be able to address the issue this weekend.
Grand Bahama Shipyard (Freeport Bahamas) which would be used for such repairs is dealing with the damage done when a crane collapsed atop Royal Caribbean's Oasis Of The Seas, so an alternate plan had to be considered using a first-of-its-kind “floating dry dock” created by Boskalis, who specializes in finding solutions to complicated marine-based problems.
Boskalis Vanguard is the world's largest heavy-lift vessel (semi-submersible platform). Once the cruise liner is positioned atop it via the help of tugs, the platform will rise, thus creating a floating dry dock on which the repairs can be made.
BOKA Vanguard is scheduled to arrive in Bahamian waters on July 5 to prepare for the arrival of Carnival Vista on July 12. The loading, transport, and repairs are due to take around two weeks. If all goes as planned, Carnival Vista will sail back to Galveston TX in time to greet her guests scheduled to set sail on July 27.