Sanmar tug number eight for P&O Maritime Logistics

The new vessel, named P&O Gaynde will bring the number of Sanmar-built tugs in its client’s fleet to eight and is based on the RAstar 2900SX ASD escort tug design from Canadian naval architect Robert Allan Ltd.

Describing the vessel Sanmar states: “The tug is the latest and most advanced of a distinctive class of ASD tugs with a unique sponsored hull form, proven through model and full-scale testing to significantly enhance escort towing and seakeeping performance.”

High-spec

Basic specifications include overall length 29.4m, moulded breadth 13.3m and design draught 5.75m. Performance figures include minimum bollard pulls ahead and astern of 80t and 75t respectively with a speed of 12kn, the vessel providing accommodation for a crew of up to eight persons.

As is common with modern newbuild tugs this example of the Sanmar-exclusive RAstar 2900, built as Bigaçay XIV, meets the latest environmental standard of IMO Tier III emission requirements, its capabilities enhanced with inclusion of fifi1 fire-fighting requirements.

The design is described by Sanmar as primarily intended for demanding escort operations in exposed areas where exceptional seakeeping capabilities are crucial.

The list of Sanmar clients choosing this class comprise established and respected owners including Svitzer, Targe Towing, SAAM Chile and the Turkish Government who operate four examples with duties including as Emergency Towing Vessels.

Confidence in builder

The “mutually beneficial” relationship between Sanmar Shipyards and P&O Maritime Logistics dates back to 2013 and 2014 when the Bakirçay class ASD tugs Bulani and Sereia were delivered for operations in Mozambique.

The following year the Bogaçay class ASD tug Shaheen 2020 commenced operations for P&O in the UAE and in 2018 the Doğançay series conventional twin screw tug Egal started work in Somaliland, followed by sister vessel M Jeex in 2020.

Prior to the delivery of P&O Gaynde the latest Sanmar-built tugs for P&O were the RAmparts 2400SX MkII twins P&O Carey and P&O Manati delivered in 2023 for operations in the Dominican Republic.

Extending a relationship with an existing customer is always a sign of confidence for a shipbuilder as Ali Gürün, chairman of Sanmar Shipyards explains: “I am always delighted when a client returns for more. The range of tugs that we have delivered to P&O Maritime Logistics in the past decade or so is an example of how we are able to meet an operator’s specific needs in differing ports across the globe.

“We work closely with both new and existing clients at every stage to ensure we provide a service tailored to their individual operations.”

Established relationship

The relationship is clearly set to continue as hinted at by Nikhil Ahluwalia, operations director – Port Services at P&O Maritime Logistics who stated: “We are very happy to continue our fleet expansion in collaboration with Sanmar Shipyards, with whom we have a long-standing relationship.”

We look forward to soon receiving the next tugboat, P&O Asia which will further enhance our capabilities. I extend my sincere thanks to both the Sanmar and P&O teams for their dedication on this project.”

P&O Maritime Logistics is part of a large organisation that started out in 1837 as The Peninsular Steam Navigation Company and while in its present form P&O is associated with luxury cuises and ferries, in its maritime logistics arm focuses on offshore energy, port services and cargo transport on a global scale.

It owns and operates a diverse fleet of around 400 vessels, mainly centrered around the offshore sector with vessel types including: tugs, AHTSs, PSVs, cable-laying vessels, crew boats, ERRVs, workboats and barges.