KOTUG International has launched two 44-metre methanol dual-fuel escort tugs for operations in British Columbia in support of Trans Mountain, according to KOTUG International.
The vessels, SD AISEMAHT and SD QWIY AANITSA SARAH, were designed by Robert Allan Ltd. and built by Sanmar Shipyards.
KOTUG said the newbuildings are the world’s first large, purpose-built methanol dual-fuel escort tugs.
The tugs have 115 tonnes to 120 tonnes of bollard pull and will be among the most powerful escort tugs operating in Canada. They carry full escort notation for tanker operations and are fitted with engines capable of running on diesel or methanol.
The propulsion system meets IMO Tier III standards and includes emission-control technology, shaft alternators and optimised energy-management systems.
KOTUG said the use of renewable methanol can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions. A mechanical cross-link system allows one engine to drive both azimuth thrusters during transit, reducing fuel consumption and engine running hours during low-load sailing.
The vessels also have hull-coating systems intended to cut underwater radiated noise along Canada’s West Coast, including whale habitats.
KOTUG said the tugs are fitted with oil-spill response systems, including skimmers and recovered oil storage capacity, as well as dedicated firefighting systems for standby support in the Salish Sea.
The vessels are named in honour of the Sc’ianew First Nation and reflect a partnership focused on environmental stewardship, employment, engagement and knowledge exchange.
KOTUG International is a family-owned maritime company providing towage and related marine services, including vessel design, building, chartering and operation, training, consultancy, procurement and logistics.
Robert Allan Ltd. is a Canadian naval architecture and marine engineering company that designs tugs, workboats and specialised vessels.
Sanmar Shipyards is a Turkish shipbuilder specialising in tugboats and workboats.
Trans Mountain operates energy transportation infrastructure in Canada, including pipeline and marine terminal assets.