Second dual fuel tug launched

This is the second unit of a series of three currently under construction for the Norwegian shipowner Østensjø Rederi. When completed it will provide tug services to Norwegian state-owned energy company Statoil at its Melkøya terminal.

Designed by the Canadian company Robert Allan, the new escort tug, with 40.2m length and 16m beam, is built to withstand freezing cold conditions being shaped specifically to grant full operational availability at temperatures of 20ºC below zero.

It combines environmental sustainability by using LNG for most of its operations, with the flexibility of being able to use diesel power to ensure a high level of operational security.

For the next few months, this new vessel will be moored at the Figueras yard´s quay while being outfitted. It is scheduled for sea trials and subsequent delivery in 2017.

Østensjø Rederi AS is a leading provider of offshore, towage and accommodation services worldwide operating a fleet of 28 modern vessels.

It said it focuses on pioneering the application of new technologies to provide safer, more environmentally-friendly and more efficient vessels.

Meanwhile, Gondan Shipyard is a shipbuilder with more than 90 years of experience in the sector. Located in the Asturian Castropol district, north of Spain in the Cantabric Sea, the company has facilities in Figueras, Barres and Vegadeo.