Docking a ship for inspections, repairs, and upgrades to the hull, rudder, propeller, and engines is essential. Dock winches are therefore crucial infrastructure for shipyards and maritime facilities worldwide.

Dock winches keep the ship in position during docking and undocking operations. An intricate system is required to smoothly and well controlled bring ships in and out of dry docks, as seen at the @GARDEC dry dock.

In most cases, electric winches powered by a planetary gearbox are preferred.