Siport21 has significantly strengthened its advanced training offering with the introduction of full RotorTug® simulation capabilities at its Maritime Simulation Center, developed in close collaboration with KOTUG. The upgrade is powered by Kongsberg Maritime’s K-Sim® platform and includes the installation of a third azimuth thruster control on the real-time ship simulation bridges.

This enhancement enables highly realistic modelling and manoeuvring of RotorTug-type vessels — characterised by their unique triangular propulsion configuration with two forward azimuthing thrusters and one aft. Designed for superior manoeuvrability, high redundancy and strong indirect towing performance, RotorTugs represent one of the most advanced tug designs in modern towage operations.

The new simulation capability is the result of extensive technical development by Siport21’s team of naval engineers and 3D modelling specialists, supported by operational input from KOTUG. By combining Kongsberg’s validated numerical models with detailed hydrodynamic characterisation and real-world operational insight, the Centre now offers a high-fidelity environment that closely reflects the behaviour of three-azimuth RotorTugs in demanding scenarios, including escort operations, confined-space manoeuvres and indirect towing.

To ensure operational accuracy, the RotorTug model underwent a rigorous validation programme led by an experienced KOTUG tug master and trainer. This process included structured testing across multiple operational profiles, with direct feedback used to fine-tune vessel response, handling characteristics and force application. The result is a simulation model that reliably mirrors real-life RotorTug behaviour.

“With this upgrade, we are setting a new benchmark for RotorTug training realism,” said Raul Redondo, Manoeuvring and Nautical Studies Director at Siport21. “The involvement of KOTUG’s operational experts was key in achieving a simulation environment that reflects the complexity and precision required in day-to-day tug operations.”

The RotorTug simulation module is now available for advanced tug master training, operational assessments and demonstrations, enabling crews and operators to safely develop skills, test procedures and explore vessel performance in a controlled, virtual environment.

DISCOVER THE NEW OPTIPORT FILM! Our latest headliner video shows how smart scheduling with OptiPort is reshaping maritime operations.

🚀 IMPROVEMENTS AND UPDATES

We are proud to look back at a year of significant enhancements designed to streamline your operations and improve user experience. Here are the key highlights:

Tug Timeline & Job Replay Sharing
You can now share detailed operational replays with clients and third parties via a secure link, without requiring an OptiPort login. This delivers full transparency, giving stakeholders a clear, data-driven view of the work performed.

Integrated Information Warnings
Relevant warnings for vessels, tugs, and towages are now embedded directly in the schedule. From missing AIS signals to weather-related delays, potential issues are visible in real time, enabling faster and better-informed decisions.

Microsoft Single Sign-On (SSO)
OptiPort now supports Microsoft SSO, allowing users to log in securely with their existing work accounts. This streamlines access and aligns seamlessly with Microsoft-based IT environments.

Manual ERP Synchronisation
Schedulers now have full control over ERP updates with a manual “Sync to ERP” function for systems such as HELM and TugVision. Updates are only pushed when explicitly triggered, ensuring accuracy and control at every step.

🧠 OPTIPORT INTELLIGENCE

Our focus on actionable insight continues with new automated detection capabilities and major performance improvements:

Inland Waterway Analytics
By combining large-scale AIS data with spatial analytics, we map cargo flows to identify high-potential routes for electrification and more sustainable logistics.

Global Port Activity Tracking
Automated algorithms now detect and classify tug operations worldwide, unlocking clear insights into asset utilisation, operational bottlenecks, and efficiency opportunities.

Accelerated Performance
Significantly faster loading times enable quicker analysis of fleet speed, job execution, and fuel performance.

Improved Usability
Targeted UI enhancements, including refined date selectors, deliver a smoother and more intuitive analytics experience.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026

OPTIPORT 2.0 IS WELL UNDERWAY!

The next release focuses on a more intuitive experience, supported by a modernised architecture designed to improve performance. We are also developing a new Factfinding System, enabling customers to share port-specific rules more effectively and significantly accelerating deployment into daily operations.

✨We wish you a fantastic Holiday Season and a successful New Year ahead.✨

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ton Kooren, founder of KOTUG International, who passed away on November 13, 2025.

A true pioneer in the maritime industry, Ton Kooren transformed the world of towage through his relentless drive for innovation and excellence. His visionary spirit led to the creation of KOTUG International and the invention of the Rotortug® concept — a breakthrough that redefined safety, manoeuvrability, and efficiency in tug operations.

Ton’s legacy extends far beyond our company. He inspired generations of maritime professionals and set new global standards for innovation, safety, and sustainability. His passion, ingenuity, and courage to challenge convention will continue to guide KOTUG’s mission and the industry he helped shape.

Our thoughts are with the Kooren family and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

ROS takes the next step towards completely emission-free sand transport with an electric push boat from KOTUG, equipped with a battery pack from EST-Floattech. For the E-Pusher M, EST-Floattech has supplied a battery system consisting of 1.68MWh Lite modules in a High Cube container that is charged with an MCS plug.

Rotterdam, 4 November 2025 — In an important step towards sustainable inland shipping, the Rotterdam-based sand and transport company ROS has ordered a fully electric push boat from KOTUG. The so-called E-Pusher M is equipped with the containerised solution from EST-Floattech. The Octopus Series Lite modules in the container ensure emission-free sand transport between the Maasvlakte and Rotterdam.

The E-Pusher is a crucial link in the fully emission-free transport chain that ROS is currently building. The project comprises various projects, including a 1-megawatt fast-charging station with MCS plug (Megawatt Charging System) for the push boat, which EST-Floattech is also working on. This fast-charging station will be a first for the Rotterdam region.

Thanks to this innovative charging infrastructure, the E-Pusher can be fully charged in a short period of time, which increases operational availability and enhances the efficiency of emission-free transport. EST-Floattech’s contribution has been significant in this regard, as the company has helped to devise possible solutions. In addition to developing and implementing a solution for the battery system supplied, which can now be charged with an MCS plug, the company also contributed ideas for the shore-based solution. The E-Pusher M has now been put into service by ROS and has already completed several successful voyages in Rotterdam.

Last Friday, 31 October, Councillor Chantal Zegers (Climate, Air Quality and Energy) visited the project. During her visit, she gained insight into the role of Dutch battery supplier EST-Floattech in the energy transition in the maritime sector and the impact of the collaboration between EST-Floattech, Padmos, Jansma Shipping, KOTUG and ROS on the Rotterdam area. After all, sustainable innovation and economic development in the region remain important, especially when it comes to making the port city more sustainable.

“This push boat demonstrates what is possible when Dutch companies collaborate on sustainable projects,” said Councillor Zegers. “KOTUG’s E-Pusher, with its battery pack from EST-Floattech, is a wonderful example of innovation that ensures more efficient operations, making the maritime sector greener and helping the environment. In this way, Dutch companies are working together to prepare the port of Rotterdam for a green future.”

With the E-Pusher M and other projects, ROS is taking an important step in its transition to sustainable transport solutions and is becoming a leader in emission-free logistics. Marco Kruithof, Director of ROS, says: “Thanks to the battery pack from EST-Floattech, the push boat can sail entirely on electric power, without noise pollution or CO2 emissions. EST-Floattech was an important knowledge partner in the development of the project, helping us to achieve the right capacity on board for the sailing profile and contributing ideas about the most suitable charging solution.”

On board the E-Pusher for ROS is EST-Floattech’s 20 ft high cube container with 1.68 MWh Octopus Series Lite, with integrated AC and DC fast chargers.

Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO of KOTUG, emphasises the importance of collaboration in this project:

‘The collaboration with EST-Floattech is going very well. Their knowledge of battery technology and our experience with emission-free propulsion reinforce each other. Together, we are enabling ROS to realise a fully sustainable transport chain. It is great to see how Dutch innovation is being emulated.’

Mark Witjens, CEO of EST-Floattech, adds: “We believe that the energy transition in shipping will only succeed if we really help our customers to sail emission-free. From the battery system to advising on the use of an MCS plug and shore power solutions. Entrepreneurs such as ROS demonstrate that electric sailing is possible and that it can be achieved quickly through effective collaboration. Together, we are contributing to a cleaner and quieter future for the Port of Rotterdam.”

About ROS

ROS is a leading Rotterdam-based company specialising in sand extraction, transhipment and transport. The company has been investing in sustainable technologies for many years and strives to achieve a completely emission-free logistics chain.

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 through sustainability-focused innovations, KOTUG provides a complete portfolio based on a combination of long-standing knowledge and advanced technologies. From designing, building, chartering and operating vessels to training people and providing innovative consultancy services. 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, the Middle East, North and South America and the Caribbean and continues to expand its operations worldwide. www.kotug.com

About EST-Floattech

 EST-Floattech (2009) specialises in developing, manufacturing and installing reliable, sustainable and safe battery systems for maritime applications. The internally developed software is integrated to ensure reliable operation of the Octopus Series battery system on board. In addition, EST-Floattech supports customers with BMS development and questions about charging infrastructures. The safety and reliability of EST-Floattech’s battery technology is demonstrated by more than 300 projects with the Green Orca and Octopus Series, in which ships have been sailing with their batteries for more than ten years.

We are proud to announce that the consortium Kustkracht, which includes KOTUG International B.V., IHC Defence B.V., and Bluewater Energy Services B.V., has been one of the 3 selected by Rijkswaterstaat to participate in the next phase of the Power2Tow tender.

This step moves us closer to realizing three almost-emission-free Emergency Response Towing Vessels (ERTVs) for the North Sea — vessels that can operate electrically, and switch to sustainable methanol when higher power is required.

Kotug is honored to be part of this ambitious consortium. We bring our deep experience in tug operations, innovation, and vessel performance to this partnership. Together, we will help design, develop, and deliver the infrastructure and vessels needed to reduce environmental impact while enhancing safety at sea.

We look forward to collaborating closely with all partners, innovators, and stakeholders across the maritime chain to make Power2Tow a groundbreaking success. Stay tuned for updates as the project evolves.

Check the full article from Rijkswaterstaat: https://lnkd.in/eM89qFSP

KOTUG Training & Consultancy (KTC) and the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) have renewed their strategic partnership to further expand world-class maritime training opportunities for U.S. mariners.

Through its Center for Maritime Education in Paducah, KY, and Houston, SCI is a leading provider of simulation-based training in the United States. With this renewed collaboration, SCI will leverage KOTUG’s internationally recognized trainers and consultants to strengthen its harbor tug training programs and integrated tug master–ship pilot courses.

As a global leader in harbor, river, and terminal towage training, KOTUG will benefit from access to SCI’s state-of-the-art vessel and tug simulators. Together, the organizations will offer complementary services to ports, terminals, and the inland tug and barge industry, ensuring mariners have access to advanced training and innovative assessment tools.

“We are proud to continue working with SCI,” said Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO, KOTUG. “This collaboration merges international best practices with SCI’s deep knowledge of the U.S. market, providing unparalleled opportunities for maritime professionals.”

“The renewal of our partnership with KOTUG reflects our shared commitment to maritime safety and excellence,” added The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, President and Executive Director of SCI. “By combining our facilities with KOTUG’s global expertise, we can deliver the highest quality training for American mariners.”

The renewed agreement strengthens both organizations’ ability to meet the evolving demands of the maritime industry and supports their shared mission to enhance safety, performance, and professionalism on the water.

Smarter maintenance, reduced risks, and a lower environmental footprint

Within the Smart Tug Power project, Predict Marine, KOTUG, and ProAnalytics are collaborating on the development of intelligent, data-driven maintenance strategies for tugboats equipped with Azimuth thrusters and other critical systems. The aim: lower operational costs, improved reliability, and a future-proof, efficient fleet.

The first phase of this Maritime Innovation Impulse Project (MIIP) focused on identifying key risks and failure modes in thruster systems, including mechanical wear, contamination in fluid systems, and electrical malfunctions. Based on these insights, tailored strategies were developed to enable condition-based and predictive maintenance.

Data as the key to reliability
By linking system data – such as oil analysis, pressure readings, and temperature trends – to maintenance intervals, the project lays a strong foundation for data-driven decision-making. Together with domain experts, an advanced maintenance strategy was developed that goes beyond traditional approaches, focusing on reliability and the long-term performance of critical assets.

Proof of Concept using historical data
Based on lube oil analysis sample data and other available datasets, a Proof of Concept for smart maintenance has been developed, in which thruster failure behaviour was actually recognized in historical data. This confirms that smart data analysis makes maintenance more predictable and underlines the potential of predictive maintenance in the maritime sector.

Next steps: business case and implementation
The upcoming phase will focus on developing a comprehensive business case, balancing costs, risks, and system performance. The goal is to demonstrate how data-driven maintenance strategies can enhance reliability, availability, and sustainability across the fleet.

“By combining risk-based thinking with data-driven maintenance, we are taking a concrete step towards more predictable and cost-effective asset management in the maritime sector.”

The Smart Tug Power project is supported by Netherlands Maritime Land (NML) and the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

About the partners:

Predict Marine
Predict Marine supports maritime organizations in developing and implementing smart maintenance strategies. With deep expertise in risk-based maintenance, data analytics, and system structuring, they help fleet owners and operators transition towards future-proof asset management.

KOTUG
KOTUG is a leading maritime service provider known for its strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and safety. With a modern fleet and a global presence, KOTUG continues to lead the way in tug operations and port services.

ProAnalytics
ProAnalytics specializes in industrial data analysis and sensor integration. They help organizations unlock the value of operational data by applying condition monitoring, predictive analytics, and intelligent algorithms to complex technical systems.

İzmit, Türkiye – 01 September 2025 – A powerful celebration of engineering excellence and partnership took place at UZMAR Shipyard with the official delivery of five cutting-edge tugboats to KOTUG International.

The vessels — SD Wonder, SD Djoudj, SD Chatboul, SD Rosso, and SD Waalo — will support KOTUG’s long-term offshore terminal operations, four of them in Mauritania and Senegal, and one in Congo, providing essential towage and marine support services for the region’s advanced LNG infrastructure.

Built to the highest international standards, the tugs deliver 80 tonnes of bollard pull and are equipped with top-tier safety and environmental features, ensuring both reliability and sustainability in demanding offshore conditions.

The event was attended by KOTUG President & CEO Mr. Ard-Jan Kooren, UZMAR President Mr. A. Noyan Altug, senior executives, and distinguished guests from across the maritime industry. This delivery marks the completion of a significant five-vessel program developed in close collaboration between KOTUG and UZMAR.

Ard-Jan Kooren, President & CEO of KOTUG, said:
“This milestone reflects more than the delivery of five vessels; it reflects The future of maritime excellence.Together with UZMAR, we have built not only cutting-edge tugboats but also the foundation for future growth in West Africa. Four of these vessels will support vital energy flows, strengthen port operations, and drive economic development in Mauritania and Senegal, and one in Congo. As a family-owned company, we take pride in collaborating with the communities we operate, while we accelerate the industry with cutting edge technology based on decades of experience and leading of the industry. Today, we celebrate engineering excellence, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of our industry.”

Mr. A. Noyan Altug, President & CEO of UZMAR, added:
“What began 25 years ago as mutual respect between two companies has grown into a trusted partnership. With the delivery of these five vessels, we celebrate not only engineering excellence but also loyalty, shared values, and a friendship that stood the test of time.”

The delivery ceremony in İzmit brought together teams from both companies, honoring the engineers, welders, project managers, and crew whose craftsmanship and dedication made the project a success.