At Ulstein Verft, this is more than a technical operation; it’s a reflection of our culture: delivering on time, with uncompromising quality and safety at every stage.
“It was fascinating to witness the communication, preparation, and level of precision during the critical phases of this manoeuvre. Every operator knew their role and executed it flawlessly,” says Øyvind Amdam, newly appointed Plant and Maintenance Manager, after observing the float-out.
The operation was led by John Hatløy, a seasoned professional who, in his 37 years at Ulstein, has overseen more than 300 dockings.
“John was in complete control – clear, decisive, and quick to make corrections. He managed the process from the very first to the very last metre,” Amdam adds.
John Hatløy did not hold back on giving feedback on improvements when the new Plant and Maintenance Manager was on site.
When margins are tight, expertise matters
This float-out was anything but ordinary. The vessel’s size, broad bridge wings, lack of operational winches, and no room for a tug inside the dock meant everything had to be handled with chain blocks and sheer manpower until the tugs could take over outside the dock gate. In such conditions, experience and teamwork are not just necessary; they are critical.
“We’ve done this many times before, but it’s always an extra challenge. We took the time needed, planned thoroughly, and worked together. That’s how it stays on track,” says Hatløy, with the calm confidence that comes from decades of expertise.
Starting at Ulstein in 1988 as a worker in the outfitting department, Hatløy is now a supervisor overseeing most operations.
“My role is to assign people, ensure instructions are followed, communicate with the tugs, and coordinate everything. I’m fortunate to have many skilled colleagues who make it all work – and I’m proud of that.”
John Hatløy in a temporarily empty dock hall before the next vessel will fill the space with many more working hours for Ulstein Verft.
Preparation and collaboration
Every precise manoeuvre starts with thorough docking meetings, clear communication, and a culture of getting it right the first time. Rain and snow pose little challenge, but strong gusts can dramatically affect a 150-metre steel wall with minimal clearance on each side. For this reason, the team decided to postpone the docking by one day due to the weather:
“It was the right decision. We can’t control the weather, but we control everything else. It’s about being prepared and having routines that hold,” he emphasises.
The team checks the weather forecast frequently when a docking operation is planned.
After the vessel was safely moored in the evening, the wind picked up again, forcing the team to return and secure the moorings.
“With vessels this size, you need strong, reliable moorings and tugs capable of handling the forces involved.”
John Hatløy shows old notebooks containing docking records going back several decades.
A team to rely on
Ulstein Verft is more than a shipyard – it’s a place where experience, collaboration, and precision come together to ensure safety and quality. When nature adds complexity, it’s the competence and coordination of people that make the difference. Robust routines, professional expertise, and determination are the keys to success – even when challenges are extraordinary.
“That’s how we’ve built trust in the market, and that’s how we’ll continue. No one can do this alone, but with strong teamwork, we get the job done safely, efficiently, and precisely,” says Hatløy.
