Damen completes double delivery of tug and pontoon
The tug and barge combination will be deployed on marine engineering and construction projects in Guyana (Source: Damen)
Dutch shipbuilder Damen has delivered a multi-purpose Shoalbuster 3209, Aria, and a Stan Pontoon 4113 to marine contractor and workboat operator, A. R. Singh Contractors Ltd.
The tug and barge combination will be deployed on marine engineering and construction projects in Guyana. As a new oil producer, the South American country is rapidly building up its infrastructure, including service and supply bases, roads, hotels, and other shoreside infrastructure.
The Shoalbuster 3209 has a bollard pull of 45 tonnes and can fulfil a range of functions. It is suitable for ocean-going towage, mooring, pushing, and fire-fighting. Its long 80m2 deck is also suitable for anchor-handling operations.
The shipbuilder’s practice of building vessels for stock proved itself a valuable strategy with both units. The hull of the Shoalbuster had already been built, Damen said, but the tug’s specification has been adapted to suit the region where it will operate. The vessel’s electrical network has been altered, and a heavy-duty crane and large working deck will ensure versatility.
Meanwhile, Damen was able to deliver the pontoon with a month of the contract becoming effective.
This is the second time that the shipbuilder has constructed a vessel for the Trinidad and Tobago-based A. R. Singh Contractors, which took delivery of a Stan Tug 2208, named Adamant, in 2008.
A.R. Singh director, Mark Singh, commented: "Having had a good experience with Damen when they supplied our tug Adamant a few years ago, we decided to approach them again when we required a new addition to our fleet. Once more, Damen have been able to provide us with exactly what we required, going the extra mile to accommodate our wishes, and tailoring the vessel to our requirements."
Damen’s area manager, Caribbean, Bram van der Plas, said: "We are very grateful to A.R. Singh for placing their trust in Damen again. We were confident that our standard Shoalbuster 3209 design, with a few adjustments, is perfectly suited for the upcoming jobs. The addition of the Stan Pontoon 4113 serves as a clear demonstration of the benefits of building vessels in series, providing operators with rapid access to proven, reliable technology whenever they need it."
