Smit Report Good Results and Continuing Fleet Replacements

01 Sep 2006

Smit Internationale NV has reported an increase of 57% in their figures for the first half of 2006 In summary, the Harbour Towage division reported excellent results, the Terminals Division remains on track and the Transport & Heavy Lift Division experienced good rates and high fleet utilisation, while the Salvage Division has seen a low work rate. 

Damen's New Stan Tug 2208 Proves Popular

01 Sep 2006

As part of its policy of continuing product improvement, Damen Shipyards have been progressively reviewing and modernising their range of twin-screw Stan Tug designs. 

TOWLINES

01 Sep 2006

. Scottish marine contractor MarineCo UK has ordered a Shoalbuster 2609 from Damen Shipyards at Hardinxveld. The new vessel will incorporate several changes to the basic design, including a larger bow thruster, a more powerful hydraulic system, and modifications to achieve improved all round visibility from the wheelhouse. To be named Marineco Toomai, the tug is scheduled for delivery in May 2007. 'The commissioning of a new vessel represents a strategic shift for Marineco and ensures that we can continue to meet demand and be ideally placed for further growth in the future', said MD Mike Conafray. Earlier in the year, Marineco UK joined forces with Iskes Tugs Marine Services of Ijmuiden in Holland. 

Tristan du Cuhna Anxiously Awaits the Return of Powerful Tugs

01 Sep 2006

When the oil exploration rig A Turtle grounded on one of the world's most remote and ecologically sensitive islands early in June it caused great concern among the small local population. The 6,357 gross tons rig, originally named Petrobras XXI, had been roaming the South Atlantic for several months unattended after it was let go by its tug in heavy weather. 

Svitzer's Takeover of Adsteam Delayed by OFT

01 Sep 2006

Confirmation of the possible takeover of Asteam Marine by SvitzerWijsmuller has been delayed by some months following a decision by the UK's Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to refer the matter to the Competitions Commission. 

Adsteam Introduce Low Cost Tug Fleet to the Humber

01 Sep 2006

Adsteam Marine, one of the UK's leading towage operators, has launched Humber Tugs, a new low cost, 'no-frills' tug fleet on the Humber, in response to changes in local market conditions. The service was started last month with two Voith Schneider tractor tugs, HT Sword and HT Sabre, and the number is expected to rise to four by the end of the year.