Yesterday, the Port of Antwerp inaugurated three new reversed stern drive (RSD) tugs as part of its focus on renewing and ‘greening’ its fleet with ‘sustainable and energy-efficient vessels’.

The port purchased its first RSD tug from Multraship NV in September 2020, and this was followed by the purchase of two additional vessels. RSD tugs are designed according to the ‘double-bow’ principle, which means they can be used dynamically as a front and rear tug. The three new RSD tugs, which were designed by Damen, are all equipped with a nitrogen oxide filter to comply with IMO Tier III regulations.

The Port of Antwerp’s 32-strong fleet of tugs, dredgers and support vessels is responsible for almost 85% of its total CO2 emissions, so the fleet renewal programme will play an important part in reducing its carbon footprint.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp, commented: ‘Port of Antwerp aims to be a climate neutral port by 2050. In our role as operator we are investing in this energy transition. The purchase of these vessels is part of the renewal and greening of our fleet, in which we focus on sustainable and energy-efficient vessels.’

Rob Smeets, Chief Operations Officer Port of Antwerp, added: ‘Over the past few years, a lot has changed and a lot of hard work has gone into our operational department. The launch of Vessel Traffic Services (VTS), new tugboats, soon to be hybrid enforcement vessels… These are all strong achievements that we have been able to realise thanks to the commitment and enthusiasm of all our colleagues.’ Photo: Damen