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Abu Dhabi-based Safeen group, working in partnership with Damen Shipyards, has achieved a Guinness World Records title for the most powerful electric tugboat. The record was set by measuring the tug Bu Tinah’s high peak strength by bollard pull, demonstrating exceptional performance for an all-electric vessel. The average high peak pull of 78.2 tonnes, the highest rating yet achieved worldwide for a vessel of this type, was accomplished by the tug, a Damen RSD-E type 2513, at Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the all-electric harbour tug, the first of its kind in the Middle East, contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of marine activities thanks to its zero emissions. It also offers a cost-effective alternative to diesel powered vessels due to lower maintenance expenditure.
Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, CEO, Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “We are very proud that the first electric tug in the Middle East is also making waves on a global level with this accolade. Moreover, the fact that in parallel it is improving the sustainability of our operations alongside cost efficiencies in terms of overall fuel saving is extremely important. This vessel is now a key component of our marine services fleet and our overall electrification strategy.”
The RSD-E 2513 builds on the design of the existing Damen diesel propulsion RSD 2513 tug. With a fully electric propulsion arrangement, the RSD-E design can undertake a minimum of two towage operation on a single charge and can be rapidly recharged in just two hours.
To support Safeen’s purchase of the vessel, Damen Financial Services (DFS) provided a lease agreement. This DFS service is designed to facilitate wider access to efficient, environmentally conscious solutions, the shipbuilder states.
