Fitting out

Fitting out, or outfitting, is the process in shipbuilding that follows the float-out/launching of a vessel and precedes sea trials.

It is the period when all the remaining construction of the ship is completed and readied for delivery to her owners.

Vessels with comparatively little space for human occupation, such as oil tankers, bulk carriers and container ships, can take the least time for fitting.

The process can include: Whatever construction is completed during fitting is also dependent on the shipyard’s capabilities and the availability of equipment prior to floating.

For example, Queen Mary 2 was originally to have its propeller pods installed prior to floating, but this was not done until the fitting-out stage.