Texas-based offshore support vessel (OSV) operator Tidewater has awarded the Damen Shipyards Group a contract for the construction of two harbour tugs in a series.
Each 75-foot (23-metre) tug will be equipped for towing, mooring assistance, and firefighting. For the latter role, additional platforms and capstans will be placed aft for safe and efficient hose maintenance on deck.
The vessels will be built at Albwardy Damen in the UAE. Delivery of both units is scheduled for the first quarter of 2023.
Tidewater will operate the tugs on charter with an unnamed customer.