Forth Ports Orders Harbor Tug

March 16, 2020

The signing ceremony took place in Tilbury Docks, UK on February 26. Representing Damen was Area Director Frank de Lange, while Forth Ports was represented by COO Stuart Wallace. (Photo: Damen)

Damen Shipyards Group has signed a contract with Forth Ports Limited for an ASD Tug 2312. The new vessel will operate as part of the Forth Estuary Towage operation, conducting towage work at various Forth Ports locations as well as providing towage services to other external customers in Scotland.

Forth Ports has a range of existing operations in the Forth and Tay Estuaries that will benefit from the acquisition of this new vessel, however, the new vessel will also provide opportunities to service new emerging markets such as decommissioning and offshore wind. The ASD 2312 is well suited to operating in such an environment with such vessels; compact but powerful, with 70 metric tons bollard pull. She’s maneuverable too – thanks to her twin fin skeg and dual azimuth thrusters.

Meanwhile, the deck is obstacle free, reducing tripping hazards. The winch is located under the superstructure, which not only frees up space, but also facilitates towing operations both forward and aft. Smart layouts and compliance with MLC 20006 crew accommodation and comfort regulations ensure the six-person crew are on top form at all times, the builder said.

The tug is IMO Tierr III ready, and emissions are further reduced thanks to the tug’s smooth rounded bilge, an efficient profile that cuts fuel consumption. Damen has prepared a NOx Reduction System that can be applied to IMO Tier III ready vessels at any stage for full compliance.

As a result of Damen’s philosophy of standardized shipbuilding, the ASD Tug 2312 was already under construction when Forth Ports placed their order with Damen, ensuring rapid delivery of the vessel.

As Forth Ports required their new tug to be operational as soon as possible, Damen Marine Services (DMS) stepped in to assist. While the new ASD Tug 2312 is under construction, DMS is providing ASD Tug 2811 Pioneer to operate with Forth Ports.

While a standard platform, like all vessels in Damen’s portfolio, the ASD Tug 2312 is customizable via modular options. Forth Ports has selected a number of options for its vessel, including remote monitoring. This, ultimately, can significantly lower the total cost of ownership of the vessel. Among other things it provides feedback on performance so that sailing can be optimally efficient. It also informs whenever a part or component needs replacing, so that preventative maintenance can be carried out in order to maximize vessel uptime.

Furthermore, Damen will outfit Forth Ports’ ASD Tug 2312 with CCTV, FiFi capabilities, additional fendering at the bow and a winterization package, among other options.