Resurgent TNPA says its R1-billion Marine Fleet Renewal Programme is now complete with the delivery of two new tugboats to East London.
The new tugs, built by Damen Shipyards Cape Town, are significantly more powerful than the older tug fleet, offering a 60-ton bollard pull compared with the previous maximum capacity of 32 and 40-ton bollard pull. TNPA has also delivered five new tugs to the Port of Durban as it looks to give meaning to Operation Phakisa and the expansion of South Africa’s blue economy – considered the sleeping giant of the industrial sector.
“The journey towards the full recovery of Transnet lies in our commitment to growth and investing in fit-for-purpose equipment. This acquisition is a crucial investment towards creating a sustainable port system and will enable the execution of strategic projects currently underway at the Port of East London,” Transnet Board Chairperson Andile Sangqu said during the tug naming and christening ceremony held at the Port of East London.
Damen Shipyards Cape Town director Sefale Montsi said the tugboat investment signaled a vote of confidence in South Africa’s maritime future: “We are proud to have delivered these tugboats for TNPA. The vessels represent a substantial investment in our maritime infrastructure and will contribute to local job creation and skills development as DSCT will provide all operational support, including spares, repairs, and services. Through a centralised system the vessel will provide data-driven insight for timely information on ship operations”, Montsi said.