Damen methanol tug gains approval

The approval was granted by Bureau Veritas and the Kingdom of the Netherlands flag state, building on the approval in principle awarded to Damen in 2023 for its methanol-powered compact vessel designs.

“This is a very important step forward for our FF Tugs range,” said Pieter Spruijt, system owner, Alternative Fuels at Damen. “Class and flag state approval for the ASD Tug 2713 FF demonstrates that the AiP we received in 2023 can be applied to different models in our portfolio.

“Given the commonality throughout the range, this paves the way for approval of other FF models.”

Measuring 27.25 metres in length and 12.83 metres in beam, the ASD Tug 2713 FF is designed for a wide range of coastal and harbour operations, including LNG terminal support, ship handling and berthing, escort duties, oil pollution response and firefighting.

The Fuel Flexible concept enables operators to use conventional diesel propulsion today, while having the option to move to cleaner energy solutions in the future. The vessels can also operate on 100% hydrotreated vegetable oil and are prepared for conversion to hybrid-electric or methanol propulsion as market conditions, fuel availability and regulations evolve.

To achieve approval for a compact tug design, Damen worked closely with Bureau Veritas and Dutch authorities using a risk-based assessment approach to ensure safety standards equivalent to conventional class-approved vessels.

“Bureau Veritas has been pleased to support Damen, both in achieving AiP, as well as approval for its first methanol tug design,” said Herman Spilker, vice president North Europe at Bureau Veritas.

“I foresee a fruitful future for compact vessels able to sail on methanol fuels, as operators continue to seek a way forward with alternative fuels.”