KOTUG Canada, a joint venture between KOTUG International and Horizon Maritime, is proud to play an important role in ensuring the safe and reliable movement of tankers along Canada’s rugged West Coast. Under a long-term contract for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMEP), KOTUG Canada delivers dedicated escort towage services for crude oil tankers departing from the Westridge Marine Terminal in Burnaby, British Columbia. Today marks the first anniversary of our services.
To meet the demanding operational and environmental conditions of the region, the current two frontrunners will be replaced by two powerful methanol-fueled escort tugs—SD AISEMAHT and SD QWII-AAN’C SARAH. These are currently under construction at Sanmar Shipyards in Turkey. Designed by Robert Allan Ltd. and powered by SCHOTTEL’s SYDRIVE-M hybrid solution, these RAsalvor 4400-DFM tugs will be the first of their kind globally, delivering more than 115 tonnes of bollard pull.
While methanol fuel today offers a reduction in emissions compared to diesel, it lays the foundation for future decarbonization—enabling a pathway toward low- or zero-carbon methanol alternatives as the market evolves. This step reflects KOTUG’s continued investment in cleaner technologies and future-forward solutions.
The vessels are engineered to operate safely and efficiently in narrow, ecologically sensitive waterways. They feature graphene hull coatings, firefighting systems, and onboard spill response equipment—delivering readiness for every scenario.
A cornerstone of the project is KOTUG Canada’s partnership with the Sc’ianew (Beecher Bay) First Nation, where the escort tugs will be based at Cheanuh Marina. This partnership is more than symbolic—it includes long-term economic participation, training and employment pathways for Indigenous community members, and meaningful collaboration on marine stewardship in traditional waters.
“We’re proud to be building this project alongside the Sc’ianew First Nation,” says Laurens Korporaal, Business Development Manager of KOTUG International. “This is how responsible marine operations should be done—in full partnership with those who have cared for these lands and waters for generations.”
In parallel, a dedicated offshore supply vessel (OSV), operating under contract with the Western Canada Marine Response Corporation (WCMRC), will remain on standby around the clock, strengthening the region’s spill response capabilities and marine safety infrastructure.
With these innovations and partnerships, KOTUG Canada is proud to support the Trans Mountain Expansion Project—not just with horsepower, but with purpose.