THE FIRST of two new Newcastle-bound Svitzer tugs has exceeded expectations during sea trials in Türkiye.
Svitzer Barrington hit the water in late January, and while there is further testing to be done, early feedback on the tug’s performance has been positive.
Svitzer Nobbys, the second of the newbuilds, is due to commence sea trials in the coming weeks.
Built by Türkiye’s Uzmar Shipyard, Svitzer Barrington and Svitzer Nobbys are 32-metre TRAnsverse 3200 tugs, designed to generate higher steering forces and reduce fuel use by up to 15% compared with other tugs on the market.
The tugs will be the first of their kind in Australia, according to Svitzer. The towage operator opened a dedicated simulation centre in Newcastle last year to gear up for the introduction of the new vessels.
Svitzer said speed tests, bollard pull tests and seaworthiness during Svitzer Barrington’s trials in the Sea of Marmara have all proved promising.
The tug recorded a bollard pull of greater than 80 tonnes and a sidestepping manoeuvre at greater than seven knots.
“The TRAnsverse tug is really highlighting its versatility and adaptability for a variety of operating conditions,” Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said.
“It can perform a wider variety of jobs, faster and more efficiently, delivering a higher level of safety.
“Our team is incredibly impressed by its performance on-water to-date and can’t wait to see it in operation.
“The early performance indications of the Svitzer Barrington in Turkey is showing great promise, and we are excited about introducing this tug design into Australia.”
Svitzer Barrington is due to be handed over to Svitzer in the coming days, before it makes its way to Australia via the Panama Canal.
Svitzer Nobbys is to commence sea trials in the coming weeks.
