SMS has a strong reputation as specialists in ship repair, marine engineering and major fabrication projects in the Commercial Marine, Defence and Superyachts sectors. The business also operates, in"house, a diving and sub"surface marine engineering division.

Portico, based at Portsmouth International Port, are known in the maritime industry for their fresh produce expertise. A recent successful expansion into the project cargo market has resulted in a big increase in the numbers of vessels using their quays and, by partnering with the SMS Group, Portico can now provide alongside ship repair services to new and existing customers alike.

The site has three berths; Flathouse Quay, 165m max LOA, with a depth of 9.1m; Albert Johnson Quay, 230m max LOA, depth of 8.1m, and North Quay, 80m max LOA, depth of 4.3m " all perfect for ‘short stay’ ship repair. Good cranage and 24hr access is also possible in all locations.

Chris Norman, the Managing Director of The SMS Group, commented: “Berthing for ship repair in The Solent can be, and often is, expensive. This fact often works against operators when they consider the region for alongside ship repair works and short, sharp refits " which is an area of expertise that we specialise in.”

He concluded: “The solution offered by Portico is something new and something unique in the area. We’ve developed a partnering approach and a very special pricing structure; completing ship repair and refits alongside in Portsmouth has just become a seriously competitive solution.”

Steve Williams, Operations Director at Portico, added: “Our location close to the main shipping channels means we’re ideally placed for vessels requiring quick refits and repairs. We’re looking forward to working with SMS to offer this unique service to our customers, new and old.”

With the agreement now in place, Portsmouth UK is now open for commercial ship repair works and short stay, alongside, refits.