Sanmar Launches Odin of Scapa

Turkish tug boat builder Sanmar Shipyards said that it has launched Odin of Scapa, first of the Orkney Islands Council (OIC) two new tugs, at its shipyard at Altinova in Turkey.

"The launch was on schedule and the program is currently within budget," informed the shipbuilder.

Following a period of final fitting out, equipment commissioning and then sea trials the purpose-built tug will commence a three week passage from Turkey and is due to arrive at its new home in Scapa Flow in Orkney at the end of the second week in May.

The second tug – Thor of Scapa – is ahead of schedule and is due to arrive in Orkney some 2 months after its sister ship.

OIC’s Head of Marine Services, Engineering and Transportation, Brian Archibald said: “The program has gone exceptionally well thus far and we are delighted with the build quality and progress with both tugs. The shipyard, which is modern and purpose built for tug construction, is currently turning out about 35 tugs per year."

"The working relationship with the yard has been first class and, despite the distance between Orkney and Turkey, the project is a fine example of what can be achieved if the initial contract is a good one, if the skilled and knowledgeable people are involved on both sides and if the yard is expert in its field," he added.

The 32-meter vessels, which were named following a public vote, will replace two of the three tugs currently operated by Orkney Islands Council Marine Services. The name Vale of Scapa will be held in reserve and used if the council decides in future to replace the third tug as well.