Installing Marine Blinds & Wiper Systems: In‑Service vs Dry Dock

Staying Safe on the Job: Electrical Safety for Motorised Blind Installations

At Solarglide, we believe that excellence isn’t a destination, it’s a continuous journey. With every marine blinds installation, we undertake, there is an opportunity to learn, refine, and elevate our standards. Whether we’re fitting solar blinds in a luxury suite or upgrading wiper systems on a cargo vessel, we always analyse operations with one goal in mind: making things better.

This blog outlines our firsthand experiences and observations with installing marine blinds with our onboard installation professionals, particularly in the unique environment of cruise ships. From bustling decks filled with passengers to the quiet intensity of dry dock, we’ve seen it all, and we’re sharing what we’ve learned to help others navigate the challenges and opportunities of onboard installations.

Cruise ships are floating cities, complex, luxurious, and constantly evolving. Whether it’s upgrading entertainment systems, installing new HVAC units, or retrofitting cabins, installation jobs are a vital part of keeping these vessels competitive and comfortable. But when should these jobs be done? While the ship is in service with passengers onboard, or during dry dock when the ship is virtually empty and out of commission?

Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each approach.

Installation During In-Service Operations

 

What Are The Pros :

• No Revenue Loss :

The ship continues to operate, generating income from passengers. This is a major incentive for cruise lines trying to maximise profitability.

• Real-Time Testing:

Systems can be tested in real-world conditions -how they perform with full occupancy, fluctuating power loads, and actual usage.

• Faster Turnaround:

Smaller upgrades or installations can be done incrementally without waiting for scheduled dry dock periods.

What Are The Cons :

• Passenger Disruption:

Noise, restricted access, and visible construction can negatively impact the guest experience, leading to complaints or poor reviews.

• Limited Access:

Technicians may have to work around guests, crew schedules, and operational constraints, making logistics more complex.

• Safety Risks:

Working in active environments increases the risk of accidents, both for workers and passengers.

• Communication Constraints:

Working around passengers means installers must be extra mindful of their language, tone, and behaviour.

Installation During Dry Dock

What Are the Pros :

• Unrestricted Access:

With no passengers onboard, contractors have full access to all areas, making large-scale installations more efficient.

• Safety First:

A controlled environment reduces the risk of accidents and allows for better compliance with safety protocols.

• Comprehensive Overhaul:

Dry dock periods are ideal for major upgrades -structural changes, engine replacements, or full system retrofits.

What Are The Cons :

• Revenue Downtime:

The ship isn’t generating income, and dry dock costs can be substantial.

• Time Pressure:                                        

Dry dock schedules are tight. Delays can ripple into future voyages, causing logistical headaches.

• Limited Testing:                                      

 

Systems may be installed without the benefit of real-world conditions, requiring post-installation tweaks once the ship is back in service.

Many cruise lines now adopt a hybrid approach – doing minor installations during service and reserving major overhauls for dry dock. The key is planning to understand the scope of work, the impact on passengers, and the operational constraints. For contractors, working onboard during service, demands flexibility, discretion, and a high tolerance for tight spaces and shifting schedules. For cruise operators, it’s a balancing act between maintaining guest satisfaction and keeping the ship up to date.  

 

For more information about our motorised blind systems, safety protocols, or product options – including Somfy and Ellard motors – please contact the Solarglide team. We’re here to support your project from planning to installation with expert advice and tailored solutions. theteam@solarglide.com

 

 

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WATCH Blinds Advanced Technology

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