Sanmar Delivers Bulani ASD Tug, Turkey

Sanmar has added another new model to its range with the delivery of Bulani, the first of a pair ordered by P&O Maritime. This vessel, designed by Robert Allan Ltd. in close collaboration with the builder to meet the customer’s special requirements, builds on the phenomenal success of the yard’s Ulupinar series of which 16 are now in service around the world.

The new vessel will operate at the port of Maputo in Mozambique where P&O Maritime has a long term contract to provide all marine services at the port under an agreement with the port concession holder, Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC).

Designated the RAmparts 2400 PO–60, the new tug is a shallower draft broad beamed ASD intended for in-harbour operations configured primarily as a day boat although accommodation for up to six crew is included. Measuring 25.2m x 12m with a navigational draft of just 4.2m, Bulani has a bollard pull of 60 tonnes derived from a propulsion system comprising a pair of Caterpillar 3512C main diesel engines driving counter rotating type US 205FP Rolls-Royce Z-drives with four-bladed fixed pitch propellers of 2,400mm diameter. The maximum free-running speed is 12 knots.

The design is based on an intended low-manning operation, with a high standard of machinery automation, but the accommodation can be adjusted to match almost any reasonable requirement. The layout of Bulani has been developed to match the most commonly acceptable manning standards. Optional layouts are available as either a basic ‘day boat’, or with full accommodation for a crew of up to six persons.

A DMT double drum winch is fitted on the vessel’s fore deck with a brake capacity of 150 tonnes. Data Hidrolik supplied the 130 tonne towing hook on the aft deck which has space for a 20ft container. The tug is being delivered by sailing around the West and South coasts of Africa and is expected to commence operations at Port Maputo, early December.

Alan Rowan, Regional Director, P&O Maritime – Middle East, Africa & Europe region said: “Bulani is the most advanced harbour tug operating in the region. It will significantly boost the capability and safety of towage for ships’ calling at the port. Our emphasis on excellence is reflected in this order for two vessels from a quality shipyard that will enhance customer service.”

In response, Sanmar director Ali Gurun said: “We now have an impressive range of compact and powerful tugs and welcome P&O Maritime’s faith in us as a builder of choice. A 70-tonne BP version has also been developed and we are already discussing this model with potential customers.”

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Press Release, November 13, 2013