Boluda Towage orders four hybrid tugs from Damen Shipyards

Damen Shipyards Group has ordered eight Voith Schneider Propellers (VSPs) to deliver four new Voith Water Tractors (VWTs) with hybrid propulsion systems to towage services company Boluda Towage.

Hybrid propulsion systems for enhanced efficiency

The first VWT hybrid tugs are to be delivered from Damen Shipyards to Boluda Towage starting in 2025. The new TRAktor 3200-V escort and terminal tugs have been designed by the Canadian engineering firm Robert Allan.

Each of the escort and terminal tugs will have two Voith Schneider Propellers to provide the necessary thrust and maneuverability. The VSP 32X6/265 propellers will be powered by 3,000kW CAT 3516E engines and 300kW electric motors/generators via Reintjes reduction gearboxes.

Tugboat technology collaboration

Andreas Amelang, senior vice president of sales marine at Voith, said, “As a long-standing operator of VWTs, Boluda has confidence in this proven tugboat type and is continuing its successful collaboration with Robert Allan, Damen Shipyards and Voith.”

Frank Mücksch, sales application manager marine at Voith, commented, “The efficient VSPs and the hybrid propulsion concept enable economical and low-emissions operation of the tugs with a bollard pull of over 80 metric tons.”

In related news, Damen recently began building a diesel-battery hybrid construction service operation vessel (CSOV) for Ta San Shang Marine (TSSM), just two months after the initial contract was signed. Click here to read the full story.