WATERMAN (1984) SOLD TO RUSSIA
It is reported that the 1984 built Dutch registered with call sign PIMU tug WATERMAN (Imo 8318166) from Royal Wagenborg Sleepdiensten – Delfzijl; Netherlands has been sold to Russian owners. She was spotted under the Russian flag as MB LINTER 2. The tug was built by Scheepswerf H.H. Bodewes B.V. Millingen a/d Rijn and outfitted at Scheepswerf Damen BV – Gorinchem under respectively yard numbers 773 and 8642. In 1987 delivered to Wagenborg as the second under this name Waterman. She has a length of 28.48 mtrs a beam of 9.15 mtrs and a depth of 4.27 mtrs. The two MWM TBD440 main engines develope a total output of 1,801 kW (2,448 apk). She has a free sailing speed of 12 knots and a bollard pull of 32.2 tons. The tug is classed Lloyd Register of Shipping.
(Source & Photo: Jasiu van Haarlem)
CHRISTENING SMIT LAMNALCO LNG TUGS GLADSTONE
The champagne flowed freely as Smit Lamnalco celebrated the naming and blessing of the latest additions to its fleet of tug boats. The Smit Lamnalco tugs for the LNG Gladstone project were christening on the 23rd March 2016. The vessels are named SL Curtis Island; SL Quoin Island, SL Boyne Island; SL Heron Island and SL Wiggins Island. The five tugs are built by Sanmar Turkey. The tugboats will service three LNG export terminals in the Port of Gladstone on Australia's east coast. This Robert Allan RAster 3400 series are Bureau Veritas-classed tugs, and are 34 metres long, 14.5 metres wide, have a maximum draft of six metres and have FiFi 1 notation. Powered by a pair of Wärtsilä 8L26 diesel engines, each developing 2,720 kW at 1,000 rpm, the tugs have a bollard pull ahead of 86 tonnes, astern of 80 tonnes and a free-running speed of 15 knots.
TWO EVOLUTIONARY CARROUSEL RAVE TUGS UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Risk of capsizing under tow load eliminated; - Unique maneuverability ; - Highly efficient braking and steering operations
\r\nIn cooperation with Robert Allan Ltd. (RAL) and Novatug B.V., Voith participated in the development of a new tug. The Carrousel RAVE Tug (CRT) is characterized by a towing winch on a ring. This ring can rotate freely around the tug's deckhouse – a unit referred to as the "Carrousel Towing System". This system eliminates the risk of capsizing under a tow load. In combination with two Voith Schneider Propellers (VSPs) arranged inline, the tug design allows for a slender and highly efficient hull. New and previously unseen levels of tug operation safety and efficiency will be reached with this evolutionary concept. The first two Carrousel RAVE Tugs are currently under construction for Novatug B.V., a subsidiary of Multraship Towage & Salvage. Braking and steering operations can be performed highly efficiently with the new tugs. Utilization of the hull forces rather than the propulsor forces results in lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions. The CRT can carry out maneuvers not been seen before with any other tugboat concept. During these maneuvers, the yaw angles of the tug are virtually limitless. 
The VSPs were chosen for their precise thrust control, quick response and insensitivity to variations in inflow direction. Arranged in-line, the VSPs allow very smooth and precise control of the tug heading under all possible operating conditions. The towline force can continuously be controlled safely and precisely via the VSPs. With the help of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), the Voith ship simulator and model testing, extensive optimization work has been performed on the design to determine the optimum position of the propellers relative to the carrousel system as well as the optimum size and position of the skeg. The result is a very well balanced tug that is stable and easy to handle in all sea and weather conditions. The VSPs are controlled via a fully redundant Voith electronic joystick control system. In November 2015, Damen Shipyards Group began construction of the tugs through their subsidiary Van der Velden Barkemeyer GmbH. Delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of 2017. The CRTs are 32 meters in length overall and have a maximum operational draught of 6.30 meters. Propulsion is via two 32RV5 EC/250 Voith Schneider Propellers in combination with 1150 DTL Voith Turbo Couplings, Renk gear couplings and two ABC main engines delivering 2,650 kW at 1,000 rpm. The slender hull shape of the CRTs and the controllable pitch propeller characteristic of the VSPs allow a free running speed of 14 knots. The bollard pull will be 70 tons. Irrespective of the compact size of the CRTs, the steering forces reach an impressive 160 t at 10 knots.
(Press Release, taken from Tugs Towing and Offshore Newsletter / Hans van der Ster)
Shoalbuster NOORDSTROOM launched
The Shoalbuster 3512 NOORDSTROOM was launched at Gorinchem and moved to Damen Hardinxveld for further fitting out and to get ready for delivery end of April. The NOORDSTROOM ", length 35.00 meters and a width of 12.0 meters, brings a range of benefits: - Bollard Pull of approx. 55 tons at 2.90 meters draft - Extensive working deck of 145 m² - Accommodation up to 11 personnel - Office room for the client, incl. V-Sat connection - Fuel efficient due to three main engines - Sustainable techniques on board, resulting in: "Clean Ship Notation" from Bureau Veritas - "Anchor Handling Notation" from Bureau Veritas The new 3512 will be available for deployment wherever it is required. A Bollard pull of 55 tonnes with a draft of 2.90 meters will make it invaluable for heavy towage in shallow waters, a HS Marine deck crane with a lifting capacity of 11.3 ton @16.5 metres. An ability to carry up to seven (7x 20 ft.) and two (2x 10 ft) standard containers, facilitate diving, survey, renewables and dredging operations.With a fuel bunkering capacity of 255.0 m³ and 43.0 m³ freshwater capacity and waterfallanchor handling / towing winch which hold a wire of 600 and 1000 meters, will the " NOORDSTROOM " also appropriate for long distance towageAs optional the "Noordstroom" can fitted with the following equipment: - A-Frame (50 tons SWL) - Ploughing equipment - 4 points mooring system - Water injection dredging system - Diving ops. platform - ROV platform
Book: Tug Stability: A Practical Guide to Safe Operations
Tug masters experience the effects of a tug's stability every day when manoeuvring their vessel, either free sailing or when assisting ships. During tug operations, a number of forces and combinations are working on a tug – such as towline, hydrodynamic, steering and propulsion forces – often at or near their maximum with respect to the tug's stability. It is, therefore, not just desirable but necessary for tug masters to have at least a basic idea of the elements of stability. They need to know where the limits are, and what the consequences could be, if the tug or tug handling practices don't conform to the rules of stability – not only in normal circumstances but also when extreme conditions, such as dense fog and storms, occur. The consequences can be very dramatic. Numerous harbour tugs have capsized, often with tragic consequences. In the tug capsizes known to have occurred between 2010 and 2015, more than 45 people have drowned. This educational guide to stability specifically for tugs aims to provide this important information to tug masters. It is written in a manner readily understood by all tug masters, regardless of their education, formal qualifications, nationality or operational backgrounds. The text is accompanied by numerous illustrations and photographs. In writing this handbook, the authors master mariner and pilot Captain Henk Hensen and naval architect Dr. Markus van der Laan have focussed on the practical aspects of stability, tug design and equipment and also on the consequences of unsafe procedures. Their emphasis is on harbour tugs, although several of the topics covered apply equally to seagoing tugs." The authors have produced an original and valuable training guide which will increase the knowledge of tug stability within the industry, and so enhance the safety of tugs, tug crew and the ships they support. It is hoped that this increased knowledge will indeed enhance safety and help to protect the marine environment." Ashok Mahapatra Director, IMO Maritime Safety Division. "This tug stability book will greatly contribute towards safer towage operations by enhancing the working knowledge of tug masters. It is an important publication for all tug masters and towage managers, no matter what facet of the towage industry they are engaged in." Arie Nygh ITA Patron; Managing Director, SeaWays Consultants.
\r\nPublished by the ABR company
Visit: www.tugandosv.com
Towing Line / Hans van der Ster
Newsletter National Dutch Towage Museum January 2016
The latest newsletter of the National Towage Museum dated January 2016 is published!
\r\nYou will find the newsletter in the News category in this website, from where you can download this document, and on Facebook. If you would like to receive the news bulletins directly on your personal mail account, please let us know on the mail page in this website in the Contact chapter.
The newsletter is published quarterly, in January, April, July and October.
Note: the newsletter is published in the Dutch language only. If you are really interested in a particular item, please contact us and we will inform you more thoroughly.
This bulletin contains:
\r\n- preface from the chairman, with new year's wishes, the membership of the new burgomaster of the town of Maassluis of the Supervisory Board of the museum and the wake up call for the continuity of the donationship in a changing environment.
- report on the presence of musical singer Noortje Herlaar in the museum during the Furieade festival in october last year at the occasion of the farewell reception of the former burgomaster of Maassluis, Mr. Koos Karssen
- request for usage of an EUMIG film projector
- a story about the ship bell, her functions in the old and in present days and the original bells that are present in the museum
- report on the traditional yearly Allemansend, a cosy gathering of the museum's volunteers, dayly board and the Supervisory Board
- a number of photo shots of the traditional new year's drink in the museum
- PR activities: a report on the fair Europort 2015, that was also attended by a delegation and a stand of the Tug Harbour Foundation and the National Dutch Towage Museum
Please press the blue button to download the newsletter.
\r\n
Damen delivers Dutch Navy tug NOORDZEE
Damen delivers its first hybrid tug boat to the Royal Netherlands Navy on februari 20, 2016.
\r\nThe first of a series of three ASD TUGs 2810 Hybrid was navigated into the Den Helder harbour by the Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) on Saturday, February 20th. This hybrid tug that bears the name NOORDZEE is almost 29 meters long and is the first standard hybrid tug supplied by Damen that the RNLN will employ.
\r\nThe contract for the three ASD tugs emphasises the good cooperative partnership that exists between Damen and the RNLN, as well as their shared vision. Both parties believe in a durable future and have chosen a sustainable option with the ASD TUG 2810 Hybrid.
\r\nAt this time, the RNLN has four conventional tugs in Den Helder at its disposal. However, these older vessels do not have sufficient power to tug new ships such as the HNLMS Karel Doorman, HNLMS Rotterdam and the HNLMS Johan de Witt. Furthermore, the old vessels still make use of normal propellers with rudders with a restricted manoeuvrability and no longer fit the vision of sustainability that the RNLN has for the future.
\r\nThe state-of-the-art ASD TUG 2810 Hybrid is one of Damen's standard tugs and, with its hybrid propulsion system, is powerful and durable. The vessel is provided with two rudder propeller units for optimum manoeuvrability and is able to sail on full electric power by means of a set of batteries and also diesel-electric on the generator set. When full pull is required, both main diesel engines are used, giving a maximum bollard pull of 60 tonnes, ensuring that all heavy duty tug jobs can be realised.
\r\n
The RNLN was explicitly looking for a standard tug which was very environmentally friendly, as well as being powerful enough to realise heavy operations. The Navy contracted Damen for the project due to the fact that hybrids and sustainability are standard design concepts for Damen. In total, the RNLN, in cooperation with the Swedish Navy, has ordered five vessels, including the hybrid tugs. The two additional Swedish tugs are also of a standard design, but designed for operations in icy waters.
The NOORDZEE was sailed by the RNLN from Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania to the port of Den Helder. The two other ships, the WADDENZEE and the ZUIDERZEE will be delivered in mid-March and mid-June. Damen is proud to have the opportunity to cooperate with the RNLN, in a partnership which emphasises the vision of sustainability and the diversity of both parties.
Reunion Wijsmuller personnel in IJmuiden
During the 2011 reunion of former employees of Bureau Wijsmuller at IJmuiden, The Netherlands, a promise was made to organise a next reunion in 2016. And, according to a Dutch saying, from a promise originates an obligation. Therefore this site has been opened for the reunion of 2016. This happening is for everyone, and their partners, who has been in the service in the past at Bureau Wijsmuller. Seagoing as well as onshore personnel will be welcome. General information: Date : Saturday april 30th 2016. Location: the Telstar stadium at IJmuiden. Time: Start 13.30 h., closing at 19.00 h. Entrance fee: € 40,00 per participant. This amount includes the buffet at about 17.00 h and coins for refreshments. Further information can be obtained by sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Because of the necessary advance payments by the organization committee, a restitution cannot be made in case the participant for any reason will not be able to attend the reunion.
Smit Lamnalco Cayman & Montserrat sold
It is reported that the 2008 built Damen ASD2810 sisters SL Cayman (Imo 9516284) (ex. Smit Cayman - 2015) and the SL Montserrat (Imo 9516272) (ex. Smit Montserrat - 2015) has been sold to Masco JSC on the first day of February 2016 and renamed respectively Helius and Grumant. Both tugs are built by the Damen Song Cam Shipyard – Vietnam under yard numbers Smit Cayman 511551 and Smit Montserrat 511550. They have a length o.a of 28.67 mtrs a beam of 10.43 mtrs and a draft at sides 4.60 mtrs. The two Caterpillar 3516B TA HD/C diesel engines develops a total output of 3,678 kW (4,930 bhp) which results in a free sailing speed of 13.5 knots and a bollard pull ahead of 60 tons.
\r\nsource: Towingline.com
\r\n(Photo's Smit Cayman and Smit Montserrat datasheets Damen)
More...
BosKalis Offshore buys 2 AHTS vessels
It is reported that Boskalis Offshore purchase the two DPII Anchor Handling Tug Supply vessels Sea Bear (Imo 9185932) and Sea Lynx (Imo 9178410) from Deep Sea Supply. The two vessels will be renamed Union Bear and Union Lynx. The AHTS, type KMAR404, will be drydocked this weekend at the Damen Shipyard - Schiedam; Netherlands. The 1999 built sister vessels have a length o.a. of 73.50 mtrs a beam opf 16.40 mtrs and a draught of 6.90 mtrs. The Bear is built by Kværner Kleven Leirvik under number 271 and the Lynx by Kværner Leirvik under number 281. The two ainengine develops a total output of 11.240 kW (15.000 bhp) (Photo: D. Thompson)
ROYAL DUTCH NAVY tugs sold
Alongside each other for one last time! Tuesday morning Ron Damman received a call from an employee of the harbor office: 'Are you busy?' 'Yes I'm quite busy, why?'. They told me they wanted a picture of all the tugboats alongside each other for one last time while it still could. Of course this was something I really wanted to do, so I went there just after noon. The first new tugboat, NOORDZEE, was on its way to Den Helder and the two oldest tugboats, LINGE and REGGE, are about to leave the Port of Den Helder.
Above at the photo you see, from left to right, de REGGE, ROTTE, HUNZE, LINGE en GOUWE (the 'A' boats) next to those you can see the BREEZAND and the MALZWIN. The BALGZAND is still at the naval shipyard for maintenance. After some 'research' Ron can tell you that the four 'A' boats will leave for England via Damen Trading. The LINGE, REGGE, ROTTE and the HUNZE are sold to MTS Towage in Brixham and Falmouth. The only "old" tug that will stay in service off the Royal Dutch Navy in the Port of Den Helder is the tug GOUWE.
Photo / text : Ron Damman www.newdeep.nl © China
\r\nPhoto II: Wim Vrolijk
\r\n
\r\n
Technical specifications LINGE class:
\r\n(Dutch Navy Linge class) (sisterships: LINGE, HUNZE, REGGE, ROTTE)
380 GRT, L27,45m, B8,30m, Dr2,70m, Dp3,80m
2 scr +nozzle, 2x diesel 4t 8cyl Stork-Werkspoor type DRO-218K, 1600bhp-1177kW total, sp 12kn, bp 21t
A 874 LINGE
1986 -15/11: Casco launched by "Scheepswerf Bijlsma" at Wartena (NLD) (YN 638) (keel laid 12/06/1986)
1987: completed by "Delta Shipyard" at Sliedrecht (NLD) (YN 812)
1987 -20/02: delivered to the Dutch Royal Marine at Den Helder (NLD) (white wheelhouse roof)
(NLD flag, c/s PAIU)
2004: still in service
source: The Tugslist / Piet van Damme
Necrology Mr. R.W. Scheffer (Smit)
by: Nico Ouwehand (National Dutch Towage Museum)
\r\n
On Tuesday 9th February we received the message that Mr. R.W. (Rom) Scheffer passed away at the age of 85 years. During the sixties, seventies and eighties of last century Mr. Scheffer was a remarkable personality in the world of shipping. After his training to become an officer on board of ships, he sailed for some two years on freighters and passenger ships, i.e. for Van Nievelt Goudriaan and for KJCPL on Tjisadane.
Soon, it struck his masters that Rom Scheffer had quite some commercial qualities. At the age of 22 Mr. Scheffer decided to work ashore. He accepted jobs for foreign companies in South-Korea, the U.S., Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. A.o. he chartered ships for a mining company that exported ore from Malaysia to Japan. When the mines were more or less exhausted and mergers took place, he was looking for a new challenge.
His reputation was already well-known and he was recommended to Mr. A. Lels, the man who, at that time one of the directors of L. Smit & Co, laid a plan on the table to establish a shipping company for supplying drilling platforms in the North Sea. In 1964 at the age of 33 Mr. Scheffer became the first employee and the first director of Smit-Lloyd, the company that Mr. Lels had in mind.
Thanks to the energetic approach of Rom Scheffer the company became a renowned firm in the offshore world and oil-industry. Oil-production at sea was still in its infancy and Mr. Scheffer was a pioneer as far as supplying drilling platforms were concerned. The original plan was to have seven suppliers built, however for each ship there was already a contract concluded before even being commissioned. After only some years dozens of Smit-Lloyd suppliers were sailing the oceans. Subsidiaries were established in a.o. Australia, Greece and the U.S.
In 1976 some of the subsidiaries of L. Smit & Co's Internationale Sleepdienst, among which Smit-Lloyd merged. Still the Smit-Lloyd vessels kept on sailing under their own wellknown colours for quite some time. One year after the merge Rom Scheffer was asked to accept the job of CEO of Smit International as a whole. Although his heart was still with Smit-Lloyd he accepted this difficult task. For ten years he was the leading personality of this world wide well-known towage and offshore company. During that period of time he encountered many problems. Both the markets for towage as well as offshore activities decreased. Yet, thanks to his inventive, however difficult decisions Smit International survived.
By 1987 Mr. Scheffer had to decide to step down. His health caused him too much troubles and he was right when he stated: You can't do this job in a more quiet atmosphere. 
Still after 1987 the maritime markets were facing difficult times. As a consequence in 1996 Smit-Lloyd was sold to the American Seacor company. That's certainly a fact that hurted Mr. Rom Scheffer. Although retired Mr. Scheffer kept on following the weal and woe of Smit International, the towage market as well as the situation in the offshore industry.
In 2006 he persuaded me to write the history of 'his' company, viz. the book "The Smit-Lloyd Story". An outstanding man in the maritime world passed away. He leaves his marks in the offshore history.
Maassluis, 13th February 2016
