Multraship names latest Damen tug

The vessel, the latest in a three-tug contract, incorporates a range of additional features. These include IMO Tier III compliance provided by a Damen Marine NOx Reduction system, cutting NOx emissions by 80% compared with IMO Tier II requirements, FiFi-1 firefighting systems, and an anchor-handling upgrade for offshore operations. Accommodation spaces have also been modified with additional insulation for greater crew comfort.

The other operations on which the tug is likely to be deployed include the Princess Elisabeth Island project, the world’s first artificial energy island sited 24 nautical miles of the Belgian coast. Multraship will assign two tugs to the project.

The Dutch company’s managing director, Leendert Muller, explained: “For the Princess Elisabeth Island project, Multraship is responsible for towing and assembling the caissons from Flushing to the island. Each caisson measures 57m in length, 30m in width, and 50m in height, serving as the foundation for the island’s structure. The project requires significant towing capacity, and the Multratug 35 and Multratug 36 have been designated for the task.”

The company is also engaged in towage and marine support services for the Fehmarnbelt Project, Denmark’s largest infrastructure project and the world’s longest immersed tunnel. This 18.2km-long tunnel will connect Denmark and Germany and is expected to open in 2029. Multraship has seven vessels deployed on the project.

Commenting on the three-tug contract with Damen, Muller said: “With these new additions to our fleet, we remain committed to providing services of the highest standard. Part of this is ensuring our fleet is equipped always to provide rapid, reliable, and safe operations. We know we can rely on Damen to meet our specifications and deliver high-spec vessels, and we are very pleased to welcome Multratug 36 to our fleet formally.”

The vessel was named by Jacqueline Pey, the spouse of Chris Pey, senior commercial manager at Multraship.