Barge order and new tug news from Boa Offshore

Transporting heavy objects on semi-submersible barges and ships, the so-called ‘dry-tow’ method, is becoming increasingly popular, the sector seeing an increase in the number of new-build self-propelled vessels falling into this category.

Along with expanding its towing capability, Boa is adding to its non-propelled semi-submersible barge fleet alongside the additional tugs, providing flexibility and allowing the barges to be economically deployed for more ‘static’ roles, including load-out and float-off operations; vessel dry docking; decommissioning projects; and salvage operations.

New tugs

The announcements were made on the same day, starting with delivery of Boa Munin, a Damen ASD Tug 3010 ICE design vessel, which will join its 2024-delivered sister vessel Boa Hugin. Both vessels were built at Damen’s Changde shipyard in China.

The pair will operate out of Sandnessjøen, Norway, with roles in port support services, towages and emergency response operations, demonstrating their adaptability for various roles when not engaged in barge towing.

Boa Munin and its sister vessel are designed for working in hash conditions, including open sea towage as well as sheltered waters, their BV-class notation including unrestricted navigation, escort towing, oil pollution recovery and fire-fighting capabilities.

Boa Munin has a length of 30m and develops 60 tons bollard pull from twin CAT 3516-HD main engines developing 3,846kW (5,220hp) in total powering azimuth thrusters with fixed-pitch propellers, the two new additions bringing the number of tugs at Boa’s disposal to eight.

New barges

Boa describes its one firm order plus one option for semi-submersible barges with China’s Dalian Shipbuilding Offshore as ‘a significant step forward in its commitment to expanding our fleet to meet future market requirements.’

The one firm order, to be named Boabarge 39, is due for delivery in Q3 2026 with the name Boabarge 40 reserved for the optional vessel should it follow. The two additions will bring Boa’s barge fleet to 18 vessels, six of which are heavy deck cargo barges, and 12 heavy lift semi-submersible type, of which Boabarge 39 and 40 will have the largest capacity.

Key features of the new vessels illustrate their scale and capabilities, and include length 166m, beam 73.38m, heavy cargo capacity approximately 57,500t, submerging capacity 22.5m water above deck, extreme deck strength 35t/m² and ballast pump capacity 22,500 m³/hr.

Four removable flotation towers are included, providing enhanced stability and flexibility. A hybrid power system will include solar, batteries and generators along with shore power integration for optimised energy efficiency.

“We are excited to partner with Dalian Shipbuilding Offshore for the construction of Boabarge 39,” said Ole Bjørnevik, CEO at Boa. “This contract underscores our commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions for our clients, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the maritime and offshore industry.”