New state-of-the-art tug has joined the port fleet

18.03.2009

On 16 March this year, the official flag hoisting ceremony was held on a new tug "Virtus" launching its operation on the Gdansk port waters. Among the numerous guests attending the celebrations, the Port of Gdansk Authority SA was represented by Vice-President of the Board, Slawomir Wrzesniak.

"Virtus", which is currently the largest vessel owned by the company "WUZ" Port and Maritime Services, was built in the Northern Shipyard SA. The 30 meters long and nearly 11 meters wide tug is fitted with two engines driven by a main Caterpillar drive, with a total capacity of 4,800 KM and 56 tonnes of towing power.

"Virtus" is the second tractor tug - besides "Taurus" - and has two Schottel azimuth propeller devices (rotational columns fitted with screw propellers) placed at a distance of 10 metres from the vessels bow, which ensures high maneuverability. This distinguishing feature is a significant improvement on the quality and efficiency of the tug operation - the time of the operation has been substantially reduced. Additionally, "Virtus" is equipped with a state-of-the-art navigation system, air-conditioning and a specially-designed synthetic tow-rope with a diameter of 44 mm.

"Virtus" has joined the fleet of twelve tugs owned by "WUZ" Port and Maritime Services. Along with the tugs "Tytan" and "Taurus", it makes up a fleet of large-sized state-of-the-art tug vessels designated for handling the most demanding operations at the Gdansk port. "Virtus" is well-suited to provide services to the biggest vessels that can enter the Gdansk port - tankers with a carrying capacity of 300 thou. DWT, sea-going container carriers, large-sized bulk ships carrying aggregate as well as vessels and floating rigs that enter the Gdansk "Remontowa" Ship Repair Yard. Although the Port of Gdansk is characterized by high navigation safety standards, services offered by the new tug boat will provide an even greater improvement in this area. The vessel's parameters also comply with all environmental safety requirements.