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Thu 5 Sep 2024, 13:58 GMT

Auramarine supply system chosen for landmark methanol-fuelled tugs


Vessels to enter into service in mid-2025.

Illustration of Kotug tugboat and the logos of Auramarine and Sanmar Shipyards.
The keel-laying ceremony for the world's first large purpose-built dual-fuel methanol escort tugs was held in May 2024, with construction taking place at Sanmar Shipyards Altinova, Turkiye. Image: Sanmar Shipyards

Auramarine's methanol supply system has been selected for the world's first large purpose-built dual-fuel methanol escort tugs.

The two vessels, which are owned by Kotug Canada and measure 44 metres in length, are currently under construction at Sanmar Shipyards Altinova in Yalova, Turkiye, and are due to enter service in mid-2025, making them the first of their kind.

Based on the RAsalvor 4400-DFM design by Robert Allan Ltd., the tugboats will serve Canada's Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMEP), escorting tankers from the harbour limits of Vancouver to the open Pacific Ocean via the commercial shipping lanes of the Salish Sea.

The landmark vessels — to be named SD Aisemaht and SD Qwii-Aaan'c Sarah in honour of the Sc'ianew First Nation — will also be the most powerful escort tugs in Canada, capable of achieving a massive 120 tonnes of bollard pull; and they are set to provide environmental and ecological benefits through reduced greenhouse gas emissions and underwater radiated noise — designed to help protect the Salish Sea's resident Killer Whales.

Commenting on the partnership with Auramarine, Hakan Tunç, Engineering Director at Sanmar Shipyards, remarked: "This is a great opportunity for both companies to accelerate their decarbonisation journeys, innovate and build something totally new to support the industry going forward."

John Bergman, CEO of Auramarine, said: "We are delighted to be part of this unique project and are committed to supporting our clients on their decarbonisation journey."
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