A panamax-size floating dock sailed halfway across the world from China to arrive at the Perama shiprepair area near Piraeus this year.

The Piraeus III platform, which can handle ships of up to 80,000 dwt, entered commercial operation last month.

It is the most visible sign of foreign investment breathing new life into Greece’s ports. Locals hope the new floating dock will bring jobs and spur economic activity in a country that is still rallying from its worst recession since World War II.