Special report: 37 years later, the structure is more alive than ever.
In the heart of the Mediterranean, embraced by the salty breeze of the Catalan coast, stands one of the best silent testimonies of what it means to build well.
We are talking about the industrial shipyard of the Port Ginesta dry dock, a project born in 1988 by the hand of Jansa Metal, and that almost four decades later is not only still standing, but continues to be a key element in the operation of the port.
A living example of what a well-thought-out, well-executed and, above all, well-maintained metal structure represents.
In the heart of the Mediterranean, embraced by the salty breeze of the Catalan coast, stands one of the best silent testimonies of what it means to build well.
We are talking about the industrial shipyard of the Port Ginesta dry dock, a project born in 1988 by the hand of Jansa Metal, and that almost four decades later is not only still standing, but continues to be a key element in the operation of the port.
A living example of what a well-thought-out, well-executed and, above all, well-maintained metal structure represents.
Steel structure with purpose: the vision behind steel
When we designed this ship, we did not imagine that over time it would end up receiving a name of its own among the port workers and technicians: “the covered dry dock”. A simple name, but full of history. And the fact is that this ship was not just another one. It was -and still is- a structure designed to withstand the harshness of the marine environment, offer operational versatility and adapt to the needs of the port over the years.
Rodrigo de Febrer, captain of the port Ginesta, sums it up accurately:
“The dry dock of Port Ginesta has been and is an essential part of the commercial and industrial exploitation of our port. A fundamental part of its activity, it even has its own name as a covered dry dock, which has been adapting to the port and its needs over the last 40 years”.
37 years, multiple livess
What began as an industrial building for naval services has gone through different stages. According to Rodrigo, it has housed shipyards, served as a warehouse for boats, logistics headquarters for Suzuki Spain, and today it is a reference as a first class technical space.
“Some of the famous ‘swallows’ of the port of Barcelona have been built there. Regatta boats, traditional wooden boats… It currently houses two paint booths for boats up to 25 meters in length and catamarans.”
The same metal skeleton that 37 years ago was assembled by Jansa, today continues to welcome innovations and technologies that did not even exist when it was erected. And that is the true litmus test of a good metal structure: its ability to adapt to the future without losing its essence.
Intelligent design: natural light, ventilation and durability
One of the highlights of this vessel – and something many ignore until they need to – is its functional design. Rodrigo emphasizes this:
“Its diaphanous structure, its great natural luminosity and ventilation, have been and are highly appropriate for many types of activity. This has allowed for great versatility in their commercialization and use.”
The ship is integrated into the port landscape as if it had always been there. Its robust façade, its high ceilings with skylights that bathe the interior in light, and its layout allow for everything from maneuvering with heavy machinery to fine ship restoration work. All without interruptions, without bottlenecks.
Minimum maintenance, maximum results
It’s not every day that a customer tells you that, after almost 40 years, it has hardly needed any maintenance. But that’s what we hear when we ask about its current condition:
“The truth is that the ship has aged very well. The maintenance tasks have been basic, especially linked to the roof and the polycarbonate louvers. Structurally the ship is impeccable.”
In a marine environment, where saline moisture corrodes structures and wears away materials, maintaining integrity after decades is more than an advantage: it is a testament to quality.
One ship, one port, one future
This project was not only a ship. It was the pillar on which Port Ginesta was able to grow, consolidate and adapt to the new times.
“The Port Ginesta dry dock shed has allowed the project of the port as a whole to grow. With the ship we have been more and better.”
And most revealing of all: today, Rodrigo and his team are considering working again with Jansa Metal for a new expansion at the port. Because when trust is built on steel and commitment, time does not rust it, it strengthens it.
A lesson for today: why making the right choice makes a difference?
In an industry where immediacy and price are sought after, this report reminds us of something important:
true profitability is not measured in euros per square meter, but in years of useful life, adaptability and operational continuity.
Rodrigo makes it clear with a sentence that is worth gold:
“A supplier that you can contact almost 40 years later and they respond to you, know their product, give you solutions and take care of you in a professional and familiar atmosphere at the same time, is a treasure. Thank you, JANSA!”
Port Ginesta, more than a port: an example of management and vision
We cannot end this report without recognizing the great work of the team behind the Port of Ginesta. From daily management to strategic planning, they have been able to get the most out of their facilities, diversify their activity and always maintain a very high quality standard.
Rodrigo de Febrer, as captain and director, is an example of professionalism and technical leadership. His commitment to continuity, intelligent maintenance and trust in long-standing suppliers says much more than any annual report.
👉 Visit the Port Ginesta website
Jansa Metal: structures that are not only built, they are inherited
This success story is no exception. It is a reflection of what we do:
we design and manufacture metal structures that age with dignity, that work every day, that protect businesses and allow them to grow.
More than 35 years in the sector have taught us that the key is to combine engineering, proximity and commitment.
And yes, in being there, even when decades have passed.
If you are thinking of building an industrial building…
…think about this:
What would it be worth to you to know that 40 years from now, your ship will still be doing its job?
That when you need to adapt it, its design allows it.
And if you call the person who built it, they will answer you with name, surname and solutions.
That’s what we do at Jansa Metal.
