Cleaner tugs for the Port of Antwerp

The port said that the two RSD 2513 Next Generation Tugs are part of its plan to make the port’s vessel fleet greener.

“We attach great importance to creating a sustainable port,” said Celine Audenaerdt, technical manager Port of Antwerp said. “In our role as operators we wish to set a good example by investing in greening our fleet.”

Green ambition

Ms Audenaerdt explained that the port is systematically replacing its tugs by investing in more modern environmentally friendly tugs. Buying the two Damen tugs fits in this framework.

The new tugs have more fuel-efficient engines and a more efficient propulsion, which significantly reduces fuel consumption.

In addition, the port is developing two new prototypes for hydrogen and methanol propulsion.

The RSD Tug 2513 is a dedicated ship-handling tug both compact and – with 70 tonnes bollard pull – powerful. They will also be outfitted with FiFi 1 firefighting capabilities.

Antwerp selected to have the vessels fitted with Damen’s in-house developed, fully certified Marine NOX reduction system, making them IMO Tier III compliant.

“We are very proud to deliver the first Damen tugs – and also the first azimuth driven tugs – to the Port of Antwerp to match their sustainable and operational ambitions,” said Vincent Maes, Damen area sales manager Benelux.