The Dry Docking requirement for a ship can be EXTENDED but CAN NEVER BE EXEMPTED. The maximum dry docking period is extended by allowing the qualified ships to undergo In-Water Surveys (IWS) which help to increase the period between two dry-docks. This is known as Extended Dry docking program. Presently, the extended dry-docking program is available for only container ships, general cargo ships, and multi-purpose dry cargo vessels. This means that ships such as tanker and passenger vessels and those subjected to Enhanced Survey Program (ESP) and Extended Hull Survey Program (EHSR) cannot opt for extended dry-docking. Dry-docking period extends from 5 to 7.5 years. Dry-docking is replaced by In-Water Surveys (IWS) from authorized underwater inspection service providers. Only those ship types and operators approved by Flag administrators are considered for dry-docking survey. Not all types of ships can apply for EDD