Winter lay-up – where the real grind begins!

Jan 22, 2026

Winter lay-up is go-time at Fraser Shipyards!
When the Great Lakes fleet comes off the lake, the yard becomes a 24/7 mission. In brutal cold and compressed timelines, our welders, pipefitters, laborers, and engineers get to work.
Frozen decks and unforgiving schedules don’t slow these crews down. They cut, weld, and rebuild with precision and pride—knowing every hour counts to have vessels mission-ready when the Soo Locks reopen.
This is what readiness looks like when temperatures drop, standards and dedication stay high because readiness doesn’t hibernate!
Photo courtesy of Gus Schauer