The launch of the first three tug boats built at Erhama Bin Jaber Al Jalahma Shipyard, Qatar for Milaha and Qatar Petroleum’s Mesaieed Port was celebrated yesterday with a naming ceremony at shipbuilder Nakilat-Damen Shipyards Qatar (NDSQ) in Ras Laffan, Gulf Times reported.
The three 18m-long tug boats are the first of a 19-vessel order that NDSQ is currently working on for Milaha and QP. The boats are the first commercial vessels to be built at Erhama Bin Jaber Al Jalahma Shipyard in Ras Laffan, which is managed and operated by Nakilat and its partners. The inauguration of the tugs marks a historic milestone for Qatar and its maritime industry.
At the ceremony the three vessels were named Alafja, Almelaihat and Umm Hawat.
Constructed entirely in Qatar, the three tugs are built in steel and took 12 months to complete. Equipped with Volvo D12 engines, the tugs have an approximate speed of 10 knots and a bollard pull of 10 tonnes. Before final handover to Milaha, the tugs will undergo a period of commissioning.
A further 16 vessels, including pilot boats, tenders and more tugs, are to be built in Qatar by NDSQ and delivered to Milaha and QP before Q3, 2014.
The order represents a significant expansion of Qatar’s coastal logistics and an impressive development for the country’s maritime industry as well as its manufacturing capacity, aiding advancement towards diversification of Qatar’s economy as outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Milaha chairman and managing director Sheikh Ali bin Jassim al-Thani, who was the sponsor of the three tugs said, “This is a special occasion for Milaha and the rest of the maritime sector in Qatar. We have been playing a key role in the development of this sector for over 50 years and are extremely proud to be a part of this milestone achievement. The newest additions to our expanding fleet are also a reflection of Milaha’s commitment to strengthen its services and capabilities in support of Qatar’s vision and economy. “We look forward to continuing to partner with QP, Nakilat and NDSQ for the remaining tugs, pilot boats and mooring vessels.”
NDSQ chairman and Nakilat managing director Mohamed Ghannam said, “Upon reaching this significant milestone in the development of Qatar’s marine industry, I would like to express our sincerest gratitude to HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and HH the Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. HH the Emir’s vision has been at the heart of the development of Qatar’s world-class shipyard. Our appreciation and thanks also extends to HE the Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah, for his initial support of the shipyard, and to HE the Minister for Energy and Industry, Dr Mohamed bin Saleh al-Sada for the invaluable ongoing support he provides us. I also take this opportunity to thank QP’s technical group and Ras Laffan Industrial City for their assistance.
“The naming of these first tugs marks an incredible achievement and a moment of pride for the State of Qatar. NDSQ is honoured to be able to make its contribution towards the comprehensive development of Qatar and the realisation of HH the Emir’s National Vision 2030.”