Latin America’s first electric tug launches

The vessel, which marks a significant milestone in the region’s commitment to sustainable maritime operations, is set to arrive in Chile following an agreement signed earlier this year between Empresa Nacional del Petróleo (Enap) and SAAM.

“This project is relevant for our company not only because it will allow us to meet the service needs of Puerto Chacabuco, but also because it is a step forward in reducing both carbon emissions and environmental and underwater noise in our logistics chain, an effort that is in line with having increasingly sustainable processes,” said Enap’s corporate supply chain manager, Mauricio Naveas.

Designed by Robert Allan and built at Sanmar’s facilities, the 25m tug has a bollard pull capacity of over 70 tonnes and fully electric propulsion.

Following the launch, the tug will undergo sea trials before its departure to Chile. The tug is scheduled to arrive in the Aysén Region in the first half of 2025, where it will provide berthing and unberthing services at Puerto Chacabuco.

“This is a key milestone to ensure that the tug operates to the highest safety standards in the subsequent phases of its development,” said SAAM Towage’s sustainability and development manager, Pablo Cáceres.

“This vessel is the third in our electric fleet, which marks a decisive step into the future with increasingly sustainable operations. At Chacabuco we will be reducing CO2 emissions by 100% compared to current operations.”