Leading Turkish specialist tug builder Sanmar continues a recent run of success with UK operators by supplying a powerful tug to Forth Estuary Towage (FET) in Scotland. As Chief Harbour Master, Alan McPherson explained: “Traditionally FET tugs have been Voith Schneider type vessels. However, when looking at our present working patterns we believed that an ASD type vessel would be suitable for our need. I have experience as a Pilot on the River Tyne, and had used ASD tugs in the past, and more recently a Sanmar built vessel. At Forth Ports we also chartered a Sanmar built ASD in 2017 for a few weeks and were impressed by the tugs capabilities.”

FET shortlisted suitable companies and visited their respective locations. “Our Marine Team spent some time in Turkey at Sanmar’s yard, and was immediately impressed with the quality of workmanship and dedication to customer service that was clearly apparent. These experiences re-enforced discussions we had with other operators and their own experience of Sanmar. During the procurement process we also had the opportunity to visit other ports and speak with operators. It is fair to say that we have received nothing but positive feedback about Sanmar and the Robert Allen design from these groups,” he added.

The model selected is a Sanmar Terminal Class, now named Craigleith. It is a Robert Allan Ltd RAstar 2800 design measuring 28.2m x 12.6m. This is fitted with a pair of MTU main engines each developing 2000kW and driving Schottel Rudderpropellers to give a forward bollard pull of 70 tonnes and a free-running speed of 12.5 knots.

The vessel has been constructed according to ABS with FiFi1 notation and is fitted with a forward DMT winch and a 90 tonne SWL Data Hidrolic towing hook aft. A Palfinger deck crane is also fitted. The accommodation includes two single and three double cabins, all with en suite facilities and finished to a high standard.

FET is a wholly owned subsidiary of Forth Ports, one of the UK’s largest port groups. The group owns and operates eight commercial ports in the UK – Tilbury on the Thames, Dundee on the Firth of Tay and six on the Firth of Forth including two specialised marine terminals for oil and gas export and provides other marine services, such as towage and conservancy. Forth Estuary Towage is based in Leith and offers towage services at Braefoot terminal.”