A landmark project uniting sustainability, innovation and First Nations partnership
KOTUG International proudly announces the launch of two next-generation escort tugs — SD AISEMAHT and SD QWIY AANITSA SARAH — marking a defining milestone in the company’s global sustainability journey. Built for operations in British Columbia to support the Trans Mountain, the vessels represent a new benchmark for low-emission, high-performance towage.
Designed by Robert Allan Ltd. and constructed by Sanmar Shipyards, the 44-metre vessels are the world’s first large, purpose-built dual-fuel methanol-powered escort tugs. With 115–120 tonnes bollard pull, they will become among the most powerful escort tugs operating in Canada. But their impact goes far beyond power.
Driving Sustainable Marine Operations
At the heart of the project is a clear ambition: to significantly reduce emissions in one of the world’s most demanding marine environments.
The vessels are equipped with dual-fuel engines capable of operating on diesel or methanol, enabling substantial reductions in CO₂ emissions when supplied with renewable methanol. Fully compliant with IMO Tier III standards, the propulsion system integrates advanced emission control technologies, shaft alternators and optimized energy management systems.
A mechanical cross-link system allows one engine to power both azimuth thrusters during transit operations. This innovation reduces fuel consumption, lowers engine running hours and improves overall efficiency — particularly during low-load sailing. The result is a smarter energy profile and reduced environmental footprint without compromising operational readiness.
In addition, advanced hull coating solutions help minimize underwater radiated noise, contributing to the protection of sensitive marine ecosystems along Canada’s West Coast, including whale habitats.
Together, these features position the vessels as a forward-looking response to the maritime industry’s decarbonization challenge — combining practical engineering with future-ready fuel flexibility.
Engineering Innovation at Escort Scale
Escort tugs operate at high power levels under demanding conditions. Integrating alternative fuels at this scale requires more than incremental adaptation — it demands systemic design innovation.
The new vessels deliver:
- 115–120 tonnes bollard pull
- Full escort notation for tanker operations
- Dual-fuel methanol propulsion
- Cross-link thruster capability for optimized load sharing
- Integrated onboard power generation architecture
Rather than retrofitting existing tonnage, KOTUG chose to invest in purpose-built vessels optimized from the outset for performance, safety and sustainability.
This is not simply an alternative-fuel vessel. It is a high-performance escort platform designed to meet today’s operational requirements while preparing for tomorrow’s environmental standards.
Beyond their escort capabilities, the vessels are equipped with onboard oil spill response systems, including skimmers and recovered oil storage capacity, enhancing environmental preparedness in the Salish Sea. Dedicated firefighting systems further strengthen the safety and standby readiness available to all who navigate these waterways.
Partnership with First Nations: A Shared Commitment
The launch of SD AISEMAHT and SD QWIY AANITSA SARAH carries a deeper meaning.
The vessels are named in honor of the Sc’ianew First Nation, reflecting a partnership grounded in mutual respect, environmental stewardship and shared responsibility for traditional waters.
This collaboration symbolizes a commitment to working alongside local communities in building safer and more sustainable marine operations. It also supports opportunities for engagement, employment and knowledge exchange — ensuring that progress in maritime innovation goes hand in hand with community inclusion.
For KOTUG, sustainability is not only about fuel and emissions. It is about relationships — and about recognizing that long-term operational success depends on trust, collaboration and shared values.
A Milestone for KOTUG
The launch of these vessels represents the Project of the Year for KOTUG. It signals a decisive step forward in the company’s strategy to integrate alternative fuels, operational efficiency and community partnership into a single, coherent approach.
By combining dual-fuel methanol capability, advanced propulsion architecture and meaningful collaboration with First Nations communities, KOTUG demonstrates how maritime operations can evolve — responsibly, innovatively and respectfully.
As global demand for sustainable energy infrastructure grows, projects like this show what is possible when engineering excellence and social responsibility move forward together.
Media contacts
Eduardo Reis Ramos – Public Relations KOTUG
e.reisramos@kotug.com
tel. +31(0)6 21410188
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