Shipbuilding season commences
The Saxon White Fleet's shipyard season is underway in Dresden's Laubegast shipyard, as indicated by the arrival of several ships and the ongoing dismantling and storage of docking facilities. This year, the steamships "Pirna" and "Kurort Rathen" are being lifted out of the water, while the "Pillnitz," "Leipzig," and "Gräfin Cosel" steamships are expected to arrive and undergo renovation.
Gerd-Rüdiger Degutsch, the Technical Director of the Saxon White Fleet, has highlighted the importance of adhering to a clear timeline for the completion of all ship-related projects. He acknowledged that this season presents a significant challenge due to the concurrent dismantling of docking facilities and the extensive renovation of the salon ship "Gräfin Cosel."
The "Gräfin Cosel" renovation is a key part of the shipyard's schedule for the upcoming winter and spring, with the project expected to take until spring for completion. The renovation aims to maintain the ship's comfort and historical authenticity, ensuring it remains a flagship vessel for the fleet.
The dismantled docking facilities are being towed to Dresden for winter storage at the Terrassenufer. The expected arrival and renovation of the "Pillnitz," "Leipzig," and "Gräfin Cosel" ships add to the ongoing activities at the Laubegast shipyard.
The Saxon White Fleet typically has a yearly shipyard or maintenance season in Dresden during the late autumn to early spring months, when the passenger ships are taken out of service for inspection, repairs, and renovations. These dismantled docking facilities will spend time at the Terrassenufer in Dresden during the winter.
For the precise 2025 shipyard season schedule, including the expected arrival dates of the mentioned ships and renovation timelines, it is best to consult the official Saxon White Fleet or Dresden tourism websites or contact the fleet’s management directly. These details are typically announced in spring or early summer before the maintenance season begins.
All ships, including the then-renovated salon ship, are expected to be present at the Fleet Parade on May 1, 2024. The parade is a significant event in Dresden's calendar, showcasing the fleet's restored vessels and offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history.
The extensive renovation of the salon ship "Gräfin Cosel" is not only a crucial part of the 2024 shipyard season but also a significant challenge due to its simultaneous undertaking with the dismantling of docking facilities. To finance this renovation, the fleet may need to secure finance within the transportation and automotive industries, as the renewed vessel would be a key attraction for tourists in Dresden's transportation industry.
