Divers clean and weld MyStar underwater

Underwater divers clean the hull and carry out repairs on the passenger ship MyStar at night, ERR reported. The work is performed at the D-terminal quay while the ship is out of service.

Cleaning supervisor Kaido Peremees said divers use a special machine resembling a brush-equipped ride-on mower. The diver steers it around the hull and monitors its operation, while two or three people supervise the process from shore.

Peremees said slime and algae adhere particularly firmly to ships travelling at speeds of more than 25 knots, requiring specialised equipment to remove them.

MyStar captain Ain Aksalu said the growth affects the ship’s hydrodynamic performance, reduces its speed and increases fuel consumption. He said winter ice provides the best cleaning effect.

Underwater work also includes repairs. Specialist Enn Väljaots said workers were welding bolts back into place after vibrations had loosened them.

Diver-welder Reio Rohtla said he had previously worked as a welder on land, but found welding underwater more interesting.