Press Release : New tug to Belfast in business boost for SMS Towage
Article Date: 2015-10-15
SMS Towage has taken delivery of another tug for its Belfast operations, bringing the overall investment in the Northern Irish city to over £9m.
The Turkish-built ASD Merchantman is sister tug to the ASD Masterman, which started in the city in 2013. Together they form the most modern fleet of omni-directional tugs in Belfast Harbour, said joint managing director Gareth Escreet of Hessle, East Yorkshire-based SMS Towage.
“This is a significant level of investment, and shows our commitment and confidence in the growing level of activity we are experiencing in Belfast,” said Gareth.
“With an operational life here beyond 2030, it allows us to leverage the fleet advantages of commonality of spare parts, training, and vessel familiarisation.”
SMS Towage started harbour operations in Belfast in 2013 attracted by the desire for change from major port users, potential for work from a new offshore wind terminal and a purpose built cruise terminal. Last year, Belfast saw a record 112,000 cruise passengers pass through the port.
