Colonna’s Shipyard Plans $79M Norfolk Dry Dock Expansion

Colonna's Shipyard, America's oldest continuously operating family-owned shipyard located in Norfolk, Virginia, is investing over $79 million to acquire its fourth dry dock, expected to be delivered in early 2028. The new dry dock will measure 147 feet wide and 725 feet long, with a lifting capacity of approximately 25,000 tons, enhancing the shipyard's ability to serve both commercial and government maritime clients amid growing demand for ship repair, maintenance, and conversion services. This expansion aligns with Colonna's ongoing modernization efforts, which have included nearly $150 million in investments over the past decade to support a skilled workforce and strengthen Norfolk's industrial working waterfront. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and other officials highlighted the project's significance as a critical investment in national defense, commercial fleet support, and maintaining Virginia's status as a premier East Coast hub for shipbuilding and repair. The new dry dock, sourced from Sedef Shipyard in Turkey, will replace one existing dock and is part of a broader plan that includes potential expansion of the shipyard's footprint by an additional 10 acres. Colonna's leadership emphasized that this expansion underscores their commitment to quality service, innovation, and economic vitality in the region.