Port of Antwerp Orders Two Tugs from Damen

Damen Shipyards Group said it has been awarded a contract by the Port of Antwerp to deliver two IMO Tier III compliant RSD Tugs 2513 following "an intensive tender process". 

The compact ship-handling tugs each offer 70 tonnes bollard pull. The azimuth driven RSD Tugs 2513 has two bows, which means high performance in both bow and stern assisting operations. As a result of the always bow first approach, Damen has been able to incorporate a higher freeboard than would usually be possible on a tug of this size – meaning no water on deck, improved seakeeping and increased safety, the builder said.

Damen said the tugs produce considerably lower emissions. The Port of Antwerp selected to have the vessels fitted with Damen’s in-house developed, fully certified Marine NOX reduction system, making them IMO Tier III compliant.

“We attach great importance to creating a sustainable port,” Celine Audenaerdt, technical manager Port of Antwerp said. “In our role as operators we wish to set a good example by investing in greening our fleet. We are systematically replacing our tugs by modern type, more environmentally friendly tugs. Buying the two Damen tugs fits in this framework. The new tugs have more fuel-efficient engines and a more efficient propulsion, which significantly reduces fuel consumption. In addition, we are developing two new prototypes for hydrogen and methanol propulsion.”

In addition, the Port of Antwerp opted to have the vessels outfitted with FiFi 1 firefighting capabilities. Damen offers numerous options for its vessels; in this way the shipbuilder is able to deliver standardized, proven vessels, tailored to the individual requirements of its clients. The vessels also feature Damen Safety Glass – shatterproof glazing similar to that used in cars – and a highly ergonomic human machine interface (HMI).

“We are very proud to deliver the first Damen tugs – and also the first azimuth driven tugs – to the Port of Antwerp to match their sustainable and operational ambitions. I must also congratulate to Port of Antwerp team with their continuous focus on lowering emissions and their courage to invest in the latest technologies,” says Vincent Maes Damen area sales manager Benelux. “It is a pleasure to work with such a Customer.”