Over 80% More Power for New Panama Tugs

Eight new tugs to the latest Z-Tech design have been ordered for the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) to boost Canal capacity and provide enhanced shiphandling services. As the number of transits by Panamax size vessels increases, the new more powerful tugs will generate over 80% more bollard pull to assist these larger ships. The new vessels will replace eight tugs of the Canals current fleet of 24 units. Three of the new tugs are scheduled for delivery in December 2006 and five in January 2008.