Apparatus and method for cleaning the hull of a vessel

An apparatus for cleaning a hull of a vessel comprising a washing unit having a plurality of washing modules for washing the hull in a submerged configuration,

• wherein each washing module is equipped with mobile connectors for the mobile mechanical connection of one washing module to an adjacent washing module, to allow a reciprocal movement between said adjacent washing modules during washing and/or movement,
• each washing module having washers of the hull for scraping dirt from said hull,
• each washing module being equipped with drivers to allow positioning and movement of the washing module with respect to the hull and/or with respect to other washing modules during the cleaning of the hull;
• wherein each washing module comprises at least one watertight chamber, which are fillable with air, dimensioned so as to provide the relevant washing module with a positive buoyancy thrust that allows the relevant washing module to be stopped in abutment against the hull of the associated vessel;
• and
• wherein said watertight chamber is equipped with a controller to allow the at least partial flooding of the watertight chamber or expulsion of water from the watertight chamber.