In Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the diesel-electric ship "Kapitan Drabkin" was launched — one of the oldest ferries in Kamchatka, operated continuously since 1971. The vessel underwent scheduled major repairs, the timeframe of which had to be extended due to serious structural wear discovered during the work.
As representatives of GUP KK "Kamchattransflot" reported, the scope of restoration work turned out to be significantly broader than originally planned: in addition to the scheduled work, replacement of the deck covering and reconstruction of the lower part of the superstructure were required. These measures became necessary as a result of the vessel's long-term operation in harsh climatic conditions and under heavy use.
At present, work is being carried out aboard the "Kapitan Drabkin" to align the propeller and intermediate shafts — a key stage in preparation for going to sea. After all trials are completed and the life-support systems and running gear are checked, the date for towing the vessel to the settlement of Ust-Kamchatsk will be determined.
Project 618M vessels were designed to serve small ports and coastal routes in the regions of the Far North and the Far East. Despite their age, they are distinguished by reliability and are adapted for operation in light ice conditions.
Read more materials on the topic:
- The capacity of Russia's seaports will grow by 56 million tons in 2026 — Ministry of Transport
- The icebreaker "Moskva" has begun ice escort operations in the port of Magadan
- The Project RSD 49 dry cargo ship "Kaspiisky bereg" will join the fleet of a Russian-Iranian shipping company in the first half of 2026
