Barnacle Removal Demand Surges as Persian Gulf-Stranded Vessels Prepare to Sail

## Barnacle Removal Demand Surges as Persian Gulf-Stranded Vessels Prepare to Sail Demand for specialist underwater hull-cleaning services in the Persian Gulf has spiked sharply as a fleet of vessels stranded in the region for over three months begins preparing to get underway, according to gCaptain. Divers who specialise in barnacle scraping and biofouling removal are reportedly working at capacity to service ships that have accumulated significant marine growth during their extended anchorage. Prolonged stationary periods in the warm, nutrient-rich waters of the Persian Gulf create near-ideal conditions for barnacle colonisation, with fouling capable of developing rapidly on hull surfaces within weeks. ### Operational and Environmental Implications Heavy biofouling carries serious consequences for vessel performance. A heavily fouled hull can increase fuel consumption by as much as 40 percent, according to industry estimates, significantly raising operating costs and carbon emissions per voyage. For vessels already facing commercial pressure after extended delays, the added drag represents a material financial burden that operators are keen to address before resuming service. Beyond economics, biofouling is an increasingly scrutinised environmental issue. Regulatory bodies and port state authorities in many regions now require vessels to demonstrate compliance with biofouling management plans, particularly to prevent the transfer of invasive marine species across geographic boundaries. Ships departing the Gulf for international ports face heightened inspection risk if hull cleanliness standards are not met. ### Diver Services Under Pressure The sudden concentration of demand has placed considerable strain on the regional pool of qualified underwater hull-cleaning contractors. Specialist diving operations require trained personnel, appropriate equipment, and — in many jurisdictions — permits governing the capture and disposal of removed biological material to prevent environmental contamination of port waters. The situation underscores a broader vulnerability in the maritime services supply chain: when large numbers of vessels are idled simultaneously — whether due to geopolitical disruption, sanctions, port congestion, or market conditions — the ancillary service sector can face acute capacity constraints upon resumption of normal operations. Industry observers note that the episode highlights the value of proactive hull maintenance scheduling and the growing strategic importance of underwater services providers as fleet operators navigate an increasingly complex regulatory and commercial environment. *Source: gCaptain*