Port Nelson to receive new tug

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What is 22.7 metres long and can pull 50 tonnes? Port Nelson’s newest tugboat, set to arrive in the port next year.

Port Nelson Ltd announced it has signed a contract with B.V. Scheepswerf Damen Gorinchem to build and deliver an ASD 2310 Damen Azimuth stern drive Tugboat.

The vessel is currently under construction at the Damen Shipyard in Changde China and is due for delivery in Nelson in August 2016.

This vessel will be the first new tug to arrive at Port Nelson since the Huria Matenga was delivered from Japan in 1984.

At 50 tonnes bollard pull, the new vessel will have significantly more power than either of the existing Port Nelson tugs, the Huria Matenga and the WH Parr.

It is estimated that the total project cost will be in the order of $8.6 million by the time the vessel arrives in Nelson next year.

“We are very pleased to confirm the contract for a new tugboat for Port Nelson,” said Port Nelson Ltd Chairman Phil Lough. “This acquisition positions us well for the future.”