Sri Lanka Shipping Welcomes Newbuild Tugs to Maritime Trade Hub

Sri Lanka Shipping Co. (SLSC) has taken delivery of two azimuth stern drive (ASD) tugs from Damen Shipyards to manage large vessels calling at the Port of Colombo.

The 23-meter vessels, named Aquarius and Capricorn, were built to Damen’s ASD 2312 design at the Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam. After being ordered in November 2023, they were completed, tested at sea, and delivered directly to Sri Lanka.

These tugs, each with a 70-tonne bollard pull, are equipped with patented twin-fin skegs, two main diesel four-stroke engines powering twin azimuth thrusters, and a FiFi1 off-ship fire-fighting system. Their efficiency will be enhanced by digital connectivity and Damen’s Triton remote monitoring system, which will help minimize downtime. These tugs will support operations for the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) in Colombo.

As one of the world’s busiest ports, Colombo’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean attracts ultra-large container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers.

Advantis Group, the transport and logistics arm of Hayleys, a publicly listed company with investments across various sectors, hosted an official naming ceremony for the two tugs on September 12 at the Port of Colombo.

“We are thrilled to welcome these new tugs to our fleet,” said Advantis Group Managing Director Ruwan Waidyaratne at the ceremony. “They will enhance Advantis’ services through advanced technology and improved operational efficiency.”

He added that the tugs are “equipped for complex maneuvers, offering superior precision in port operations” and will streamline services at the port.

SLSC provides a wide range of services, including ship ownership and operation, ship management, agency services, emergency response, ocean and harbor towage, offshore support services, and crew management and training.

During the International Tug & Salvage awards, SLSC received special commendation for its pivotal role in maintaining Colombo Port operations during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, handling 75% of port calls and ensuring essential services. The commendation also recognized SLSC’s foresight in securing fuel reserves, efficiently managing transshipment containers, and adapting quickly to US dollar payments, ensuring uninterrupted maritime trade.

SLSC was also acknowledged for its involvement in the X-Press Pearl salvage operation, demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence.