South Africa Commissions New Tugs and Launches in Port Renewal Plan
New Tugboats Enhance Operations at South African Ports
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), which manages South Africa’s ports, has recently commissioned five new tugboats for the port of Durban as part of a broader effort to improve port operations. This step is a significant milestone in the 18-month renewal plan that began a year ago, aiming to enhance efficiency at the country’s ports.
South Africa’s major ports, including Durban, Cape Town, and Richards Bay, have been struggling with severe delays and inefficiencies, largely due to outdated equipment and a lack of investment. These issues have led to the ports being ranked poorly in the World Bank’s annual report, underscoring the need for substantial improvements.
The renewal plan involves a $56 million investment to upgrade port equipment, including acquiring new, reliable tugboats. TNPA acknowledged that much of its existing fleet had exceeded its operational lifespan, prompting the need for modernization. The five new Damen ASD tugboats, delivered by Damen Shipyards Cape Town, are part of this initiative. These vessels, which feature advanced hull designs and modern diesel machinery, will be used for various operations such as pilotage, towing, firefighting, and pollution control.
While five of these new tugboats are set to begin operations in Durban, two additional tugboats will start service at the Port of East London in September. The new vessels, with a 60-ton bollard pull capacity, replace older ones with less power, enhancing the overall efficiency of port operations.
Additionally, TNPA has introduced two new launch boats, constructed by Sandock Austral Shipyards, for use in Cape Town. These smaller vessels are crucial for operating in confined sea channels and will assist with tasks such as towing, mooring, and docking. TNPA now has a fleet of 38 tugboats spread across eight commercial ports, with 14 based in Durban, South Africa’s largest seaport.
