NBBB Delivers First Hybrid Tug

The Boat builders in Freeland, Washington, Nichols Brothers Boat Builders (NBBB) has successfully trialed and delivered Baydelta Maritime’s,  new 100’ x 40’ Delta Class Hybrid Tractor Tug.

The Tug is the seventh tractor tug NBBB has built for Baydelta and its affiliated companies, but the first Hybrid, an exciting milestone for both NBBB and Baydelta.

Baydelta CEO, Shawn Bennett said: "The Delta Teresa is a great addition to our fleet of the 100x40 90 ton tugs.  Baydelta and Nichols Brothers have a long standing relationship, together creating what is widely recognized as the premier Harbor tug class”.

The tug is powered by two (2) Caterpillar C3516 C Tier 3 diesel engines each rated at 1995 kW @ 1600 rpm and by two (2) 424kw electric motors.  The z-drive system, two (2) Rolls Royce, now Kongsberg, 255FP units, can accept power from the diesel engines, electric motors and from both power sources.  The electric motors are powered by three (3) CAT C9.3 300Kw each, 480V 3-phase @ 1800 rpm generators, and one (1) harbor generator a C7.1 150 Kw 480V, 3-phase @ 1800 rpm.

The  hybrid system,  allows for the vessel to operate in different power modes, direct-diesel, diesel-electric or fully-electric. This concept will allow for  fuel savings as well as reduced exhaust emissions, while suppling Baydelta with the same power and vessel characteristics needed for their operations.  

During trials the tugs’ performance met or exceeded all expectations.  Free running speeds, under full power, of 14+ knots were obtained along with almost 10 knots on electric motor power only.

The tug has 7 berths and the major equipment on board includes; Rapp Marine electric hawser winch, and a single drum tow winch, and the drivetrain is connected with Centa carbon fiber shafts.  In addition to the drive units and hybrid system, Kongsberg supplied the control system and main switchboard, electric motors and their control cabinets.

Designed by Seattle-based Jensen Maritime Consultants, the tug carries an ABS Loadline certificate and comply with USCG requirements.

Currently under contract at NBBB is an ATB Tug for Island Tug and Barge, (4) 100’ Tractor Tugs for Foss Maritime, (2) High-Speed Catamaran Ferries for Kitsap Transit alongside repair work including Golden Gate Ferries, and Kelly-Ryan Services.