Two tugs commissioned for Ghana

Built in Vietnam for the ports of Takoradi and Tema

GHANA: Two new next-generation tugs were delivered last week to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) for use in the ports of Takoraid and Tema.

The vessels were built at Damen’s dedicated tug building facility Damen Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam. In addition to the comprehensive standard specification, they have also been equipped with fire-fighting equipment and oil spill response capability.

Named the Capt. Edward A. A. Awuviri and Nestor Percy Galley after two former Director Generals, these additions to the GPHA fleet deliver 83 tonnes bollard pull ahead and up to 77 tonnes astern. This makes them ideal for manoeuvring the range of large vessels that use the Ghanaian ports of Takoradi and Tema, two of the largest in West Africa, as well as other supporting activities.

Damen’s relationship with GPHA dates back over 20 years and the group maintains a full-time service hub in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, to support its customers and the wider maritime community. As part of the package for GPHA, Damen is also providing training at its Gorinchem headquarters for not only the vessels’ masters and crew, but also the shoreside technicians and engineers who will maintain the tugs.

“We are confident that these additions will contribute significantly to the growth and success of Ghana’s maritime endeavours. From maintenance and troubleshooting to innovations and upgrades, Damen Services will be there to keep them running smoothly far into the future,” said Eline Holtes, Regional Services Manager Damen.

Appointment Support mounts for ships rerouting around the Cape