Seaspan’s Vancouver Drydock recently wrapped up a significant project that breathed new life into one of the Canadian Coast Guard’s most critical vessels. The CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier, a Martha Black-class icebreaker, has undergone an extensive Vessel Life Extension (VLE), marking the completion of one of the most complex refits ever carried out at the North Vancouver facility.
“We are proud to partner with the Canadian Coast Guard in maintaining their fleet, so they can focus on missions that matter to Canadians, like protecting the longest coastline in the world. This project was both challenging and rewarding, and our team rose to every challenge. Thanks to hard work and dedication, working in collaboration with our CCG partners, we are now even better prepared to take on more work like this in the future,” expressed Paul Hebson, Vice President and General Manager of Vancouver Drydock.
The ship, which had been in drydock since early 2024, was undocked in April and went through an in-water work phase before being fully prepared for sea trials and ship commissioning. By August 17, following successful sea trials, the Sir Wilfrid Laurier set sail once again, ready to resume its crucial work in Canada’s Coastal and Arctic regions.
“Keeping our vessels in good working order is critical to ensuring that our personnel can provide Canadians with the services they need throughout the year. Through planned maintenance and refit works, like this important work to extend the life of the CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier, we are ensuring that vessels in our fleet remain well maintained and in service,” explained Mario Pelletier, Commissioner, Canadian Coast Guard.
The refit was no small feat. Over 100 individual upgrades were made to the vessel, showcasing the technical expertise Seaspan’s Vancouver Drydock is renowned for. Among the significant changes were the replacement of the ship’s three massive 2100kW generators and the installation of new propulsion drive cycloconverters. The rudder and shafting were also repaired and refitted, a new towing bollard with reinforced underdeck structure was installed, and the ship received a cutting-edge Shipboard Integrated Communication system.
One of the most challenging aspects of the project involved rerouting cables and installing new software for the ship’s propulsion control system (PCS) and the upgraded Power Management System. These updates are designed to maximize the vessel’s efficiency during operations. Additionally, the team meticulously removed the ship’s old piping and wiring to accommodate the new generators, a process requiring careful precision and coordination.
At 83 meters long, the CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier is now poised to continue its vital missions, which include scientific research and search and rescue efforts in some of the world’s harshest maritime environments. Seaspan’s contribution ensures that this icebreaker remains a key player in supporting Canada’s northern communities and safeguarding Arctic waters.
With significant recent investments in new facilities, including an upgraded drydock and operations building, Seaspan’s Vancouver Drydock is in a strong position to continue its long-standing relationship with the Canadian Coast Guard. The shipyard is also well-prepared to serve a broader range of clients, both domestically and internationally.
Seaspan’s role in extending the life of this vital vessel underscores its commitment to the Canadian Coast Guard’s mission and the critical role icebreakers like the Sir Wilfrid Laurier play in Canada’s maritime operations.
Watch a project wrap video here.