Dominican Republic towage deal

The contract, which starts on 7 December, will see P&O Maritime Logistics deploy three tugs to support operations at Caucedo, which has a capacity to handle up to 2.5 million teu.

Martin Helweg, chief executive of P&O Maritime Logistics said the deal signified the region’s importance to P&O. “By supporting operations in the Port of Caucedo and facilitating an increase in both the volume and size of vessels calling at the port, we can make a positive contribution to the country’s economy,” he said.

Two of the tugs are newbuilds and all three will be to handle larger vessels as well as having oil spill response and firefighting capabilities.

Located near the capital Santo Domingo, the Port of Caucedo serves as an important bridge between the Americas and the Caribbean. DP World has made major investments in the port as part of its drive to increase capacity, including a US$114 million to expand the main berth, and more than US$700 million to develop its logistics ecosystem.

“DP World considers the Dominican Republic a strategic location for ongoing investment and expansion,” said Morten Johansen, chief executive of DP World Dominicana and chief operating officer of DP World Americas Region.

“The introduction of these new tugs, equipped with market-leading capacity and capabilities, further empowers us to expand our logistics hub and enhance connectivity.”