POWERING THE FUTURE: KOTUG TO DELIVER ZERO-EMISSION EPUSHER TO LITHUANIA’S INLAND WATERWAYS
The project is co-funded by the European Union under the “Next Generation Lithuania” Economic Recovery and Resilience Plan, which allocated €11 million for low-emission inland waterway solutions.
KOTUG International, through its subsidiary Kotug Push-it B.V., has been awarded a landmark contract by the Lithuanian Inland Waterways Authority (VVKD) to deliver the first fully electric pusher tug to operate in the Baltic States. This strategic investment marks a bold step forward in Lithuania’s vision for a more sustainable inland waterway network.
The contract follows an international public tender and has received the green light from Lithuania’s National Security Coordination Commission. The vessel, designed and engineered in the Netherlands, will be built at the Padmos Shipyard in Stellendam and is expected to be operational by the end of next year following a comprehensive testing phase.
“This project represents a leap in sustainable inland shipping,” said Ard-Jan Kooren, President & CEO of KOTUG International. “We are proud to support Lithuania in realizing its ambition to decarbonize its transport sector through innovative electric propulsion. The EPUSHER-L is built to deliver zero-emission performance without compromising on power or endurance.”
The EPUSHER-L will operate on the Nemunas River and is designed for cargo transport using barges supplied by VVKD. With an endurance of up to 50 hours and a range of 300 kilometers on a single charge, the vessel combines operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. The switch from diesel to electric is expected to eliminate up to 91,500 kilograms of CO₂ emissions annually—significantly reducing the carbon footprint of waterway maintenance and cargo transport.
VVKD’s Director General, Vladimiras Vinokurovas, emphasized the significance of this investment:
“This investment marks a strategic shift in our operations: we are beginning the transition to an electric fleet. The first vessel will be used to maintain inland waterway infrastructure, and in the near future, we will increase the number of electric vessels,”
The project is co-funded by the European Union under the “Next Generation Lithuania” Economic Recovery and Resilience Plan, which allocated €11 million for low-emission inland waterway solutions. In addition to the electric pusher tug, VVKD will invest in an electric crane and new barge infrastructure.
With this milestone, KOTUG once again demonstrates its commitment to driving innovation in the maritime industry—offering scalable, future-proof solutions for a cleaner, smarter logistics chain.
The agreement for this E-Pusher L is yet another follow-up to the successful collaboration with our Launching Customer Cargill, for which the first E-Pusher M was deployed 2 years ago.
KOTUG Canada Powers Safer, Smarter Waters on Canada’s West Coast
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.
UZMAR delivers KOTUG’S SD DJOUDJ – the second of five advanced RAstar 3200W tugs, en route to Senegal
We are proud to welcome SD DJOUDJ, the second in a series of five state-of-the-art RAstar 3200W ASD terminal support and escort tugs built by UZMAR Shipyard for KOTUG International.
Built to deliver high performance with a focus on safety and sustainability, SD DJOUDJ has now departed the UZMAR Shipyard and is on her maiden voyage to Senegal. There, she will support and strengthen towage operations across West Africa—contributing to the region’s growing maritime infrastructure and economic development.
With a length of 32 metres and a bollard pull of over 80 tonnes, SD DJOUDJ is built for power and precision. Designed by Robert Allan Ltd., and fully compliant with IMO Tier III standards, she reflects KOTUG’s commitment to sustainable operations—minimising emissions while maximising efficiency.
Equipped with the latest navigation and propulsion technologies, SD DJOUDJ combines excellent manoeuvrability, advanced winch systems, and robust seakeeping performance, making her ideally suited for terminal support, harbour assistance, and escort duties in demanding marine environments.
This second delivery marks another important step in our long-term collaboration with UZMAR, and in KOTUG’s strategic growth in West Africa. It underscores our shared commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and providing future-proof towage solutions across the globe.
With three more vessels in the pipeline, we look forward to continuing this successful partnership—delivering high-spec, purpose-built tugs that support safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime operations.
Stay tuned for updates as SD DJOUDJ arrives in Senegal and begins her mission.
KOTUG Training & Consultancy signs MoU with British columbia institute of technology (BCIT)
KOTUG Training & Consultancy, the training and consultancy division of KOTUG – and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) , signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a long-term strategic partnership. The MoU encompasses exclusive training of (Escort) Tug Masters, Officers, crews and pilots in Canada by certified KOTUG trainers at the BCIT Marine Campus in North Vancouver, Canada.
BCIT is located on the unceded territories of the Coast Salish Nations of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), and xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam). BCIT has been educating and inspiring students for over half a century on their unceded traditional lands – a privilege for which both BCIT and KOTUG are profoundly grateful.
Facing an increasing demand for qualified maritime professionals in Canada, BCIT is seeking ways to increase its capabilities whilst maintaining its best-in-class training, for which the institute is renowned. KOTUG fulfils this requirement by offering first-class trainers and training materials. As the only ISO 9001 certified tug training company in the world, KOTUG Training & Consultancy sets high standards for the training facilities it uses. With its training and consultancy division, KOTUG aims to create safe and sound operations with respect for the environment and an excellent level of training and competence while safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved. With a fully equipped modern Maritime Simulation Centre, located in North Vancouver, and operating with similar corporate values, these standards are perfectly met by BCIT.
Joint Pilot Tug Master training is requested more and more by various operators, ports and terminals in the world to increase port safety and efficiency; therefore, effective and efficient teamwork between Pilot and Tug Masters is one of the key training programmes to be delivered by KOTUG at the BCIT Marine Campus in North Vancouver.
“We are thrilled with this strategic partnership. Canada is a key growth market, and with its modern facilities, BCIT meets our high standards for training. Our training method combines three components, classroom training, simulator training using state-of-the-art simulators, and onboard training. This proven didactic approach delivers the best results, preparing students for both expected and unexpected real-life situations. We look forward to starting the training and providing students with our highly regarded KOTUG Training Certificate, contributing to enhanced safety and efficiency in the maritime industry.” says Patrick Everts, Director of KOTUG Training & Consultancy.
“The strategic partnership with BCIT enhances KOTUG Canada’s (a partnership between KOTUG and Horizon Maritime) ability to locally train both existing and future crews in British Columbia to the highest industry standards. KOTUG’s extensive maritime experience combined with BCIT’s state-of-the-art facilities and 60+ years of educational excellence will be pivotal in securing both today’s and tomorrow’s maritime workforce in B.C. This partnership creates valuable local career opportunities, including for current and future Indigenous seafarers, with whom KOTUG Canada is proud to collaborate. We embrace our responsibility as a company and employer to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 92. Adds Laurens Korporaal, Business Development Manager KOTUG Canada.
Steve Perry, Dean, BCIT School of Transportation: “This partnership between BCIT and KOTUG Training & Consultancy represents a significant step forward in strengthening Canada’s maritime workforce. By combining BCIT’s training facilities with KOTUG’s world-class expertise, we are equipping mariners with the critical skills needed to safely and efficiently navigate an evolving industry. This collaboration not only reinforces BCIT’s commitment to excellence in maritime education but also supports the growth of local talent and ensures a strong and sustainable future for the sector.”
BCIT Maritime Simulation Centre, located inside the BCIT Marine Campus in North Vancouver
About BCIT
The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is a public polytechnic institution located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Established in 1964, BCIT offers a range of programs including apprenticeships, diplomas, and degrees across various fields such as engineering, business, health sciences, computing, and transportation. With five campuses in the Metro Vancouver area—Burnaby (main campus), Richmond (Aerospace Technology Campus), North Vancouver (Marine Campus), Vancouver (Downtown Campus), and Delta (Annacis Island Campus)—BCIT serves a diverse student body. The institution emphasizes practical, hands-on learning to prepare students for careers in their chosen industries.
Media contacts
Eduardo Reis Ramos
Public Relations KOTUG
e.reisramos@kotug.com
tel. +31(0) 6 2141 0188
Smart Maintenance Powered by IoT: A Groundbreaking Initiative for the Maritime Industry
Predict Marine, KOTUG, and ProAnalytics are excited to announce the launch and cooperation of a pioneering feasibility study on the applicability and added value of smart maintenance in the maritime industry. This innovative project, which officially kicks off this week and will span a duration of one year, aims to revolutionize operational efficiency, predict and reduce operational costs (OPEX), and minimize ecological impact.
Traditional maintenance strategies often fail to adequately consider the actual technical condition of systems. In contrast, smart maintenance enables proactive upkeep by leveraging data analysis, IoT (Internet of Things), and sensor technology. Instead of following fixed maintenance schedules, maintenance is performed based on system performance parameters. This approach helps reduce unplanned downtime and avoid unnecessary costs associated with both downtime and premature maintenance.
The feasibility study will focus on risk modeling in relation to maintenance strategies and the required and available system performance data. Based on this, a defined risk model and corresponding smart maintenance strategy will be developed and tested, where system data determines the risk profile and maintenance intervals. This risk and data model will then be linked to the Total Cost of Ownership of a vessel. These factors will form the foundation for an initial business case, outlining the financial feasibility of smart maintenance in the maritime industry.
This ambitious project is made possible by NML (Nederland Maritiem Land) & the Ministerie van Economische Zaken within the Maritieme Innovatie Impuls Projecten (MIIP). The goal of the MIIP is to support the maritime industry in developing new knowledge and/or products.
—- Dutch Version—
Smart Maintenance aangedreven door IoT: Een baanbrekend initiatief voor de maritieme industrie
Predict Marine, KOTUG, and ProAnalytics zijn verheugd de lancering en samenwerking aan te kondigen van een baanbrekende haalbaarheidsstudie naar de toepasbaarheid en toegevoegde waarde van slim onderhoud (Smart Maintenance) in de maritieme industrie. Dit innovatie project, dat deze week officieel van start gaat en een looptijd van één jaar heeft, is gericht op het revolutioneren van operationele efficiëntie, het voorspellen en verlagen van operationele kosten (OPEX) en het minimaliseren van de ecologische impact.
Traditionele onderhoudsstrategieën houden vaak onvoldoende rekening met de daadwerkelijke staat van systemen. Smart Maintenance daarentegen maakt proactief onderhoud mogelijk door gebruik te maken van data-analyse, IoT (Internet-of-Things) en sensortechnologie. In plaats van vaste onderhoudsschema’s te volgen, wordt onderhoud uitgevoerd op basis van prestatieparameters van een systeem. Deze aanpak helpt ongeplande stilstand te verminderen en onnodige kosten door zowel stilstand als vroegtijdig onderhoud te voorkomen.
De haalbaarheidsstudie richt zich op risicomodellering in relatie tot onderhoudsstrategieën en de benodigde en beschikbare prestatiegegevens van systemen. Op basis hiervan wordt een gedefinieerd risicomodel en bijbehorende Smart Maintenance strategie ontwikkeld en getest, waarbij systeemprestaties het risicoprofiel en de onderhoudsintervallen bepalen. Dit risico- en datamodel wordt vervolgens gekoppeld aan de Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) van een schip. Deze factoren vormen de basis voor een eerste businesscase, waarin de financiële haalbaarheid van smart maintenance in de maritieme industrie wordt geschetst.
Dit ambitieuze project wordt mede mogelijk gemaakt door NML (Nederland Maritiem Land) en Ministerie van Economische Zaken in de Maritieme Innovatie Impuls Projecten (MIIP). Het doel van de MIIP is om het maritieme bedrijfsleven te ondersteunen bij het ontwikkelen van nieuwe kennis en/of producten.
About KOTUG
KOTUG is a leading maritime family-owned company, offering its innovative towage and maritime related services on a global scale. KOTUG is firmly committed to the highest industry standards of health, safety, environment, quality, and security. Adding value by sustainability-focused innovations, KOTUG provides the complete portfolio based on a combination of long-standing knowledge and advanced technologies. This includes designing, building, chartering, and operating vessels, training personnel, providing innovative consultancy services, and offering comprehensive procurement and logistics solutions on a worldwide scale. The company’s expertise is divided across five pillars: Towage, Training & Consultancy, Intelligence, Subsea and Maritime Excellence. KOTUG is active in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, Middle East, North and South America and the Caribbean and continues to expand its operations worldwide. www.kotug.com
About Predict Marine B.V.
Predict Marine B.V. specializes in Ship Management and Smart Maintenance within the maritime industry. With a strong focus on data-driven decision-making and Total Cost of Ownership, Predict Marine provides innovative solutions that optimize fleet performance, reduce operational costs, and extend asset lifespan.
Their service portfolio includes Full Technical Ship Management, Ship Management Support, Asset Management, and Maintenance Engineering Support, offering tailor-made strategies to meet the evolving needs of shipowners and operators. Driven by innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, Predict Marine is committed to shaping the future of maritime operations and supporting clients in achieving their technical and commercial goals.
For more information, visit www.predictmarine.com.
About ProAnalytics B.V.
ProAnalytics B.V. is a forward-thinking data company committed to helping organizations achieve optimal impact through the strategic use of data. Their expertise spans a wide range of areas, including business intelligence, advanced analytics, data science, data engineering, automation, training, and advisory services.
ProAnalytics drives innovation within the data landscape to optimize business processes, enhance decision-making, and foster the growth and development of both individuals and organizations. They believe that data can reveal valuable insights that were previously unseen, enabling businesses to make informed, proactive decisions that are vital for long-term success. The approach of ProAnalytics is centered on delivering sustainable, future-proof solutions that ensure organizations stay competitive in a rapidly evolving world.
They are committed to shaping a data-driven future where organisational efficiency, human potential and sustainability are at the forefront.
For more information: www.proanalytics.nl.
OptiPort Release News February 2025
New Optiport updates are live! We have refined key features to enhance your user experience and optimise efficiency. Highlights include:
Improved Planning View – More intuitive layout, berth locations displayed, and clearer timestamps.
Integrated Info Warnings – Real-time alerts for AIS signals, maintenance deadlines, and delays.
Enhanced Tug Timeline & Job Replay UI
Better Snapshot browsing & Analysis enhancements
Stay ahead with smarter planning and seamless operations. Read the full Release Notes: OptiPort Release Notes February 2025
For any feedback or queries, please feel free to contact the KOTUG Optiport team via optiport@kotug.com.
KOTUG announces purchase of joint venture interest in Kotug Seabulk Maritime from partner SEACOR Holdings
KOTUG International B.V. (KOTUG) announced today that it has concluded the acquisition of Kotug Seabulk Maritime LLC (KSM) taking full ownership of the business. KOTUG acquired the interest of its joint venture partner, SEACOR Holdings Inc. (SEACOR) via its Seabulk subsidiary KS Maritime Holdings LLC, owner of the 50% share in KSM.
Established in 1911, KOTUG is a premier, family-owned towage and maritime service operator that offers a variety of towing, subsea, and other marine-related services to customers worldwide. Presently, the fleet comprises more than 70 tugs and barges.
Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO of KOTUG, commented, “Together with Seabulk, we have developed KSM into a renowned, leading towage brand in the Caribbean. We are excited to take full ownership of the business and to continue offering essential support to Buckeye Partners Freeport operations for many years to come, with one of the region’s most modern and sophisticated fleets. Our operations are supported by an excellent team, with more than 93% of the staff being Bahamians, both in our offices and on board.”
Founded in 2017, KSM acts as the exclusive provider of maritime terminal support services for Buckeye Partners’ Bahamas Hub, which includes launch and line handling services. Buckeye Partners is one of the largest independent operators of liquid petroleum products pipelines and terminals in the United States and currently holds the sole operating license for all bunkering operations in Freeport harbor.
Dan Thorogood, CEO of Seabulk, expressed optimism about the transaction, stating, “This is an extremely positive outcome. Over the course of our decade-plus relationship, we not only integrated the proprietary Rotortug vessel into the KSM JV but also into the formerly owned Seabulk US-flag harbor towing fleet. KOTUG is a leader in towing innovation, and I can confidently say they are uniquely suited to carry the business forward and ensure the continuation of high-quality, customer-centric operations.”
KSM joins Falcon’s Boy Club Back-to-School Maritime Seminar
Kotug Seabulk Maritime (KSM) partnered with the Falcon’s Boys Club to organize a Back-to-School Maritime Seminar at the harbour aboard the Margaritaville. It was attended by thirty boys from the club who were interested in the maritime industry. A conglomerate of different professions was represented at the seminar including a joint presentation by Kotug Seabulk Maritime and Buckeye Bahamas Hub.
“We strongly believe that the children are the future and we were overjoyed that we could be part of this event and also give back,” said Elcott Johnson, Marine Operations Manager KSM and Buckeye Bahamas Hub representative Kyle Ward. “It was an enjoyable time and the wealth of information communicated to the boys was vast and relevant, there was plenty of time to answer all their questions.”
A back-to-school handout was also conducted in which 60+ young men received school supplies from all the sponsors of the event including KSM.
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Giving the Gift of Technology to Local Grand Bahama Community
KSM partnered with the Rotary Club of Sunset to support the Grand Bahama community during these challenging times of COVID-19 with a donation of laptops to a selected group of children, in preparation for the upcoming school year. “At KSM we embrace the ‘Giving the gift of technology’ action of the Rotary Club of Sunset. We strongly believe that the children are the future and we were overjoyed that we could be part of this charitable donation through the Rotary Club of Sunset and give back to the children. We want to put the great cause of the organization in the spotlight and encourage other companies in Grand Bahama to give back to the community of Grand Bahama in whatever way possible. Together we can make the difference” says Chris Bhalai, Marine Operations Manager at Kotug Seabulk Maritime (KSM), LLC.
Read the full article here
Chris Bhalai handing over one of the 15
laptops donated by KSM.
#SeafarersAreKeyWorkers
Today the IMO Celebrates the 10th edition of the World Seafarers Day. Seafarers are on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic, playing an essential role in maintaining the flow of vital goods. However, the crisis has led to difficult working conditions for seafarers, including uncertainties and difficulties about port access, re-supply, crew changeovers, and repatriation. KOTUG Seabulk Maritime embraces this year’s campaign of the IMO to pay tribute to seafarers, acknowledging their sacrifice and the issues they face. But also to encourage everyone to treat seafarers with the respect and dignity they deserve so that they can continue to provide their vital services to keep world trade moving. Help to spread the word by using the hashtag #SeafarersAreKeyWorkers. We are proud of all our fantastic colleagues at sea in these difficult times.