TMS Awards 2023Port of StocktonGeneva DryCimbriaTelestackSailors Society
  • Sailors Society
  • Geneva Dry
  • TMS Awards 2023
  • Bühler GmbH
  • Telestack
  • Van Aalst

Forth Ports chooses Damen Tug

(Posted on 16/03/20)

Damen Shipyards Group has signed a contract with Forth Ports Limited for an ASD Tug 2312. The signing ceremony took place in Tilbury Docks. Representing Damen was Area Director Frank de Lange, while Forth Ports was represented by COO Stuart Wallace. The new vessel will operate as part of the Forth Estuary Towage operation, conducting towage work at various Forth Ports locations as well as providing towage services to other external customers in Scotland.

Forth Ports has a range of existing operations in the Forth and Tay Estuaries that will benefit from the acquisition of this new vessel, however, the new vessel will also provide opportunities to service new emerging markets such as decommissioning and offshore wind. The ASD 2312 is well suited to operating in such an environment with such vessels; compact, but, with 70 tonnes bollard pull, extremely powerful.

She’s manoeuvrable too – thanks to her twin fin skeg and dual azimuth thrusters. The ASD Tug 2312 is a state-of-the-art vessel, one of Damen’s next generation tugs. The evolved character of the vessel is clearly visible in its safety features. The wheelhouse, for example, offers 86% window coverage, using impact resistant safety glass.

Meanwhile, the deck is obstacle free, reducing tripping hazards. The winch is located under the superstructure, which not only frees up space, but also facilitates towing operations both forward and aft.

The tug is prepared for the future, being IMO Tierr III ready. Emissions are further reduced thanks to the tug’s smooth rounded bilge, an efficient profile that cuts fuel consumption. Damen has prepared a NOx Reduction System that can be applied to IMO Tier III ready vessels at any stage for full compliance. Smart layouts and compliance with MLC 20006 crew accommodation and comfort regulations ensure the six-person crew are on top form at all times.

As a result of Damen’s philosophy of standardised shipbuilding, the ASD Tug 2312 was already under construction when Forth Ports placed their order with Damen, ensuring rapid delivery of the vessel.

While a standard platform, like all vessels in Damen’s portfolio, the ASD Tug 2312 is customisable via modular options. Forth Ports has selected a number of options for its vessel, including remote monitoring. This, ultimately, can significantly lower the total cost of ownership of the vessel. Amongst other things it provides feedback on performance so that sailing can be optimally efficient. It also informs whenever a part or component needs replacing, so that preventative maintenance can be carried out in order to maximise vessel uptime.

Furthermore, Damen will outfit Forth Ports’ ASD Tug 2312 with CCTV, FiFi capabilities, additional fendering at the bow and a winterisation package, amongst other options.

Damen Sales Manager UK Mike Besijn said, “We are delighted with this order from Forth Ports. The ASD Tug 2312 is a tug for the future that I am sure will serve them well in the years to come. Forth Ports has carefully evaluated their vessel requirements for both their current and future plans around fleet renewal and we are delighted that they have selected Damen for this replacement tug and we look forward to a long and growing relationship with Forth Ports.”

Alan McPherson, Chief Harbour Master at Forth Ports said, “We are very pleased to be working with Damen on the delivery of the 2312 to Forth Estuary Towage as we replace older tonnage and significantly increase our towage fleet capability. The team at Damen have worked closely with us to deliver a very capable vessel for the operations we undertake and our staff are looking forward to this type of tug within our fleet. I look forward to building our relationship with Damen in the coming years.”

Latest News

Thordon Bearings and Wärtsilä launch Blue Ocean Alliance

(Posted on 07/12/23)

In an initiative set to be transformational for ship design while protecting the oceans from pollution... Read more


Bulk carrier design presents decarbonisation challenge

(Posted on 03/12/23)

Ship design, particularly the design of bulk carriers, presents particular challenges when it comes... Read more


VIKING changes the shape of the lifeboat market

(Posted on 26/11/23)

VIKING Life-Saving Equipment, a global leader in maritime safety solutions, is launching an innovative... Read more


Gerdes Green subsidy for Damen Combi Freighter green innovations

(Posted on 26/11/23)

Damen’s client Gerdes Green has received a subsidy from the German Government for the investment... Read more


Middle East AtoN course to enhance maritime safety in the Gulf

(Posted on 17/11/23)

A first of its kind training course for the Middle East has been held to teach mariners about the basic... Read more


Wärtsilä and Seaspan transform maritime operations with SmartDock system

(Posted on 13/11/23)

Wärtsilä ANCS, part of technology group Wärtsilä, has delivered to Seaspan, a marine... Read more


Gdansk welcomes Damen ASD Tugs

(Posted on 31/10/23)

The flag raising ceremony for three new ASD Tugs has taken place in Gdansk, Poland. In the presence... Read more


Reducing training risks for crane drivers with state-of-the-art simulator

(Posted on 26/10/23)

A new immersive crane simulator that can recreate high-risk scenarios without putting drivers or other... Read more


New Partnership to Introduce DX11 Smart Termination Technology to the UK

(Posted on 23/10/23)

Vesto Ropes, a global leader in innovative steel wire-rope solutions, has announced a strategic partnership... Read more


Bedeschi awarded new longitudinal storage contract

(Posted on 23/10/23)

Bedeschi S.p.a. has been awarded a contract for the design and supply of a new longitudinal storage... Read more


Bühler GmbHVan AalstViganPort of South LouisianaTBA GroupIMPA Events
  • Port of Stockton
  • Vigan

Subscribe to our newsletter

Keep up to date with the latest global news in bulk cargo handling and shipping