Underwater ship Hull Cleaning in India

Underwater hull cleaning in India is a critical service for maintaining vessels navigating the country’s busy maritime routes. India’s ports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Kochi, handle massive volumes of cargo, making vessel efficiency essential. This service removes marine growth like algae, barnacles, and mussels from the submerged surfaces of ships while afloat, eliminating the need for expensive dry docking. Professional divers or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) perform the cleaning using brushes, scrapers, or water jets.

1. Underwater Hull Cleaning in India


Underwater Hull Cleaning in India is Essential for India’s Growing Maritime Industry
Underwater hull cleaning is the specialized process of cleaning the submerged parts of a ship’s hull
without dry-docking the vessel. This practice is crucial for maintaining ship performance, reducing
fuel consumption, and extending the vessel’s life. In India, with its rapidly expanding maritime
industry, is becoming increasingly important.
India’s rapidly expanding maritime industry, supported by government initiatives Ministry of Ports,
Shipping and Waterways, is driving increased demand for underwater hull cleaning in India.
India’s strategic location and booming shipping sector mean more vessels are docking at Indian ports,
creating a growing demand for professional underwater hull cleaning services. This blog explains
why underwater hull cleaning matters and how it benefits the Indian maritime industry.
What is Underwater Hull Cleaning?

2. Underwater inspections refer to removing marine growth and fouling organisms like algae and
barnacles from a ship’s hull while it remains underwater. This method differs from traditional which
require dry-docking ships, which is time-consuming and costly.
In India, underwater hull maintenance is performed by trained divers or robotic systems using
advanced technology, making the process faster and safer. The availability of such services at key
ports is vital for supporting India’s growing commercial fleet. By utilizing efficient underwater
inspection methods, Indian ports ensure minimal downtime and optimal vessel performance.
Why Hull Maintenance Matters for Ships
Hull fouling caused by marine organisms can dramatically affect a ship’s speed and fuel efficiency.
The roughness created by algae, barnacles, and other growth increases drag, causing ships to burn
more fuel to maintain speed.
Regular underwater hull cleaning helps prevent:
• Increased drag from biofouling
• Excess fuel consumption by as much as 30%
• Accelerated hull corrosion and damage
For Indian shipping companies, investing in routine underwater hull cleaning is essential to avoid
costly repairs and excessive fuel costs. This maintenance step directly impacts the profitability and
sustainability of operations in India’s maritime industry.
The Link Between Hull Cleaning and Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency gains are one of the most important benefits of underwater hull cleaning. Scientific
research confirms that clean hulls reduce friction between the vessel and water, improving
hydrodynamics and lowering fuel usage.
Indian operators who perform regular underwater hull cleaning report fuel savings of 10-15%. For
the India maritime industry, these savings translate into millions of rupees in reduced fuel costs
annually and contribute to lower carbon emissions—supporting national environmental
commitments.
The Growing Demand for Underwater Hull Cleaning in India

3. Underwater Hull Cleaning in India
India’s position as a major maritime hub, with increasing cargo and commercial shipping traffic, has
accelerated the need for professional underwater hull cleaning services.
Ports like Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, and Visakhapatnam are witnessing a surge in demand for
specialized underwater hull cleaning companies.
As the Indiana maritime industry expands, regular maintenance ensures vessels stay efficient, meet
regulatory standards, and reduce operational costs.
With India’s strategic location as a maritime hub, several specialized companies like NBPS Supercargo
Marine Services LLP have emerged to meet the rising demand for efficient hull maintenance.
Environmental Benefits of Regular Hull Cleaning
Besides economic benefits has significant environmental advantages:
• It prevents the spread of invasive marine species through biofouling.
• It lowers fuel consumption, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• It aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable maritime practices.
Indian ports and shipping companies increasingly recognize underwater hull cleaning as a key part of
environmental stewardship within the maritime sector.
India’s maritime industry aligns with global standards set by the International Maritime Organization
(IMO), ensuring safer and cleaner shipping.
Challenges and Solutions in the Indian Context

4. Underwater Hull Cleaning in India
Challenges facing in India include:
• Seasonal weather disruptions, particularly during monsoons.
• Limited availability of advanced cleaning equipment in some ports.
• A shortage of skilled divers trained specifically for underwater hull cleaning.
• Complex regulatory requirements govern underwater maintenance.
However, solutions are emerging. Indian companies are investing in automated robotic cleaning
technology and specialized diver training programs. Government support and maritime regulations
are encouraging wider adoption of professional underwater hull cleaning services across Indian
ports.
Case Studies / Success Stories

5. Many Indian shipping companies have realized the benefits of regular underwater hull cleaning:
• A Mumbai-based cargo company saved 12% in fuel costs after instituting quarterly
underwater hull cleaning.
• Chennai port operators are reducing cleaning and boosting fuel efficiency.
• Coastal tanker operators in Kerala extended the lifespan of their vessels and reduced hull
corrosion thanks to consistent schedules.
These examples showcase the critical role of enhancing operational efficiency in the Indian maritime
industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, underwater hull cleaning is indispensable for improving ship performance, enhancing
fuel efficiency, and supporting environmental goals in India’s maritime sector. As the Indian maritime
industry grows, regular and professional will become a standard practice to ensure ships remain
competitive and sustainable.
Maritime stakeholders in India must prioritize reducing operational costs, comply with regulations,
and contribute to cleaner marine ecosystems. Advancements in technology and increasing industry
awareness is set to play a pivotal role in India’s maritime future.
FAQs
1. How often should a ship’s hull be cleaned underwater?
The frequency depends on factors like the ship’s operating region, water conditions, and type of
marine growth. Typically recommended every 3 to 6 months to maintain optimal performance and
prevent excessive fouling.
2. What is underwater hull cleaning, and why is it important?
The process of removing marine growth, such as algae, barnacles, and other fouling organisms, from
the submerged part of a ship’s hull without dry-docking. It is important because it improves ship
speed, reduces fuel consumption, and prevents corrosion and damage to the hull.
3. What technologies are used for underwater hull cleaning in India?
India uses a range of technologies, including high-pressure water jets, mechanical brushes, and
robotic cleaning systems. Professional divers and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are also
commonly employed for efficient and safe cleaning.
4. How does underwater hull cleaning in India affect fuel consumption?
Cleaning the hull reduces drag caused by marine growth, which allows ships to move more smoothly
through water. This results in lower fuel consumption, sometimes saving up to 15% or more,
translating to significant cost savings for shipping companies.
5. Are underwater hull cleaning services safe for the environment?

6. Yes, when performed using approved methods and equipment, underwater hull cleaning minimizes
environmental impact. It helps prevent the spread of invasive species and reduces harmful emissions
by improving fuel efficiency. Compliance with international standards like those from IMO is
essential.