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Colombo Dockyard PLC
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Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC) was established in 1974 and is Sri Lanka's leading ship repair and shipbuilding facility. Located within the Port of Colombo, it has operated in a strategic partnership with Japan's Onomichi Dockyard Company Limited since 1993. The facility features four dry docks, with the largest capable of accommodating vessels up to 125,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT), allowing for the maintenance of large tankers and container ships. The company focuses on constructing specialized vessels, such as cable layers, anchor handling tugs, and patrol boats for global markets. As a publicly listed company, CDPLC is a major contributor to the nation's foreign exchange earnings and provides employment to over 3,000 skilled workers. By adhering to international quality standards, the shipyard sustains Sri Lanka's maritime competitiveness along the vital shipping lanes of the Indian Ocean.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Sri Ponnambalawaneswaram Kovil · St. Anthony's Church · St Andrew's Church
- Nearby: Moratuwa (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 71 | 115 | 226 | 224 | 143 | 99 | 113 | 162 | 292 | 305 | 175 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Colombo Dockyard PLC is Sri Lanka's largest and oldest shipbuilding and repair facility, strategically located in Colombo Port. It is a central hub for the region's maritime industry, offering comprehensive ship services.
Visiting
The shipyard itself is not open to the public, but from the harbour promenade you can see the docks and cranes. Occasionally, boat tours organised by the port authority offer a view from the water side.
Where to view it
The best public viewpoint is the harbour pier at the end of Chaithya Road, offering an overview of the entire shipyard. Another good spot is the upper floor of the passenger terminal, giving a panoramic view of the port.
Local products
Shops around the port sell maritime equipment and seafaring supplies. Nearby markets offer fresh seafood and traditionally handcrafted boat models.
Active season
The shipyard operates year-round, with peak periods during the monsoon break from January to March. Many repair jobs are carried out then, as ships stay in port.
Nearby
Combine the port visit with a walk along the historic harbour promenade and a visit to nearby Pettah Market. Colombo National Museum and Galle Face Green are also recommended for a day trip.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1974 as a state-owned enterprise.
- Partnership with Onomichi Dockyard (Japan) began in 1993.
- Features 4 dry docks for both repairs and new constructions.
- The largest dock has a capacity of 125,000 DWT.
- Exports specialized vessels to over 10 countries worldwide.
- Directly employs more than 3,000 skilled staff members.
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Sights in the town Colombo Dockyard PLC (5)
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Frequently asked questions
What does Colombo Dockyard PLC do?
It is Sri Lanka's leading shipbuilding and ship repair company.
Where is the shipyard located?
The shipyard is located within the Port of Colombo.
Can you visit the shipyard?
Public access is not possible due to strict security regulations in the port.
What types of ships are built there?
They build tugboats, patrol vessels, and specialized ships for international customers.
How long has the shipyard existed?
The company was founded in 1974 and works closely with Japanese partners.
Colombo Dockyard PLC: where is it located?
Colombo Dockyard PLC is located in Sri Lanka.
Colombo Dockyard PLC: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sri Ponnambalawaneswaram Kovil, St. Anthony's Church, St Andrew's Church.
Colombo Dockyard PLC: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
Colombo Dockyard PLC: why is it worth visiting?
Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC) was established in 1974 and is Sri Lanka's leading ship repair and shipbuilding facility.
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