Signalling a major commitment to tug fleet renewal, Petroleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA) has placed a 10-vessel order with Damen Shipyards Group, as part of the state-owned operator’s strategic shift from chartered in to owned tonnage. The new tugs, which are expected to enhance operating efficiencies while reduce running costs, will provide mooring and manoeuvring support to tankers in Venezuelan ports and harbours.

Following a global tender, the contract calls for Dutch shipbuilding group Damen to supply ten ASD 2810 type Azimuthing Stern Drive tugs, each with a 60 tonne bollard pull rating. Seven of these 28m long tugs are being supplied by Damen Shipyards Galati (Romania), while the remaining three are being built at Damen’s joint venture Song Cam yard in Vietnam. All ten tugs are expected to be delivered by the end of July this year.

Tags: Damen Shipyards, Petroleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA)