TOWLINES

McAllister’s tractor tugs Brian A, Ava, Alex and Ellen McAllister collectively provided 21,000hp to assist the 900’ long USNS Comfort to Pier 90 at Manhattan’s cruise terminal under the control of docking pilot Capt Robert Ellis. USNS Comfort is home 1,200 naval personnel and 70 civilian crew and while the occasion attracted global media attention it is just one of the many similar operations performed by New York-Based McAllister Towing keeping the US supply chain operating.

ALP Maritime Services has been selected by the TechnicFMC, JGC joint venture to provide five tugs for the Coral South FLNG project offshore Mozambique.Three 300tbp ‘Future class’ anchor-handling tugs will tow the vessel from South Korea to the site to be joined by two of ALP’s 19,000bhp tugs where together they will keep the 432m long vessel accurately in position while a mooring vessel connects pre-laid mooring chains to the FLNG. Once it is moored two of the five tugs will continue to support further operations on site.

Farsund Fortøyningsselskap has welcomed an Eddy-design tug to its fleet from Holland Shipyards Group. Built in 2014, Eddy I was the first of class 30-65 hybrid design tug from Holland Shipyards, subsequently operating in Venezuela before returning to European waters. It now carries the name FFS Athos and modifications for its new role include the fitting of a deck crane and extension to the winch. The tug was soon called into action towing to safety a disabled LPG tanker from west of Farsund.

Van Wijngaarden Marine Services (VWMS) has teamed up with Dutch Marine Contractors (DMC) for commercial management of VWMS’s latest fleet addition the Multi Cat Kilstroom. VWMS and DMC will approach and support their individual markets, the availability of Kilstroom strengthening their position in the workboat and offshore market enabling an increase in client base and service to clients.

Kilstroom is a Damen 3013 Multi Cat meeting DP1 notation and powered by three Caterpillar main engines driving fixed-pitch propellers providing 39.8tbp and speed 11kn. Comprehensive deck equipment provision includes two Heila HLRM 440/45 cranes with Kraaijeveld providing towing and anchor-handling winches. Accommodation is provided for 11 persons with temporary provision for up to four additional personnel.

By Peter Barker