(HOUSTON) — Gulf LNG Tugs of Brownsville has announced the signing of contracts with Master Boat Builders and Sterling Shipyard for each to construct two tugboats to serve the Rio Grande LNG export facility (RGLNG), which has commenced construction in Brownsville, Texas.
Execution of the construction contracts represents an important milestone for Gulf LNG Tugs’ commitment to provide dedicated tug services to RGLNG. In consultation with RGLNG, Gulf LNG Tugs selected Master Boat and Sterling after a rigorous bid process.
“Both shipyards stood out for their experience, capabilities and price competitiveness, and we’re excited to continue our partnership with these shipyards,” said Kirk Jackson, Gulf LNG Tugs’ partnership representative.
Each shipyard will construct two Z-Tech 30-80 tugboats designed by naval architect Robert Allan Ltd. These 30-80s represent a proven workhorse in Gulf Coast ports, where affiliates of Gulf LNG Tugs already operate 10 of the same hull design. The tugboats will meet U.S. Coast Guard Subchapter M regulations and will be classed through the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).
The main propulsion engines are Caterpillar 3516 E, complying with EPA Tier 4 emission standards, and the tugs will receive the ABS low emission vessel notation. The main engines are connected to Schottel SRP 510 FP z-drives fitted with 9-foot propellers. The tugs are also fitted with a Markey DEPSF-48 100-hp electric hawser winch with render-recover.
The new tugboats will have an overall length of 98.5 feet, beam of 42.7 feet, and a bollard pull of 80 metric tonnes. Additionally, each tug will be equipped with firefighting capabilities to meet the ABS Fire Fighting Class 1 (FiFi 1) classification.
“We are immensely proud to continue our partnership with Gulf LNG Tugs’ owners, and we look forward to delivering the Z-Tech 30-80s to provide years of reliable escort service for RGLNG,” said Garrett Rice, president of Master Boat.
“Sterling Shipyard is excited to commence construction of the Z-Tech 30-80s. Gulf LNG Tugs and its owners are premier tug service providers, and we’re honored to support their growth,” said Harry Murdock, CEO of Sterling.
About Gulf LNG Tugs
Gulf LNG Tugs of Brownsville is a joint venture formed to provide tug services for RGLNG under a long-term agreement. It is owned by Bay-Houston Towing Co. of Houston; Moran Towing Corp. of New Canaan, Conn.; and Suderman & Young Towing Co. of Houston.
About Master Boat Builders
Master Boat Builders has provided marine construction services for over 40 years. Based in Coden, Ala., the shipyard has delivered more than 430 vessels to customers over the world.
About Sterling Shipyard
Sterling Shipyard, located in Port Neches, Texas, has provided marine construction and repair services since 2009. In 2022 and 2023 it has invested to expand its infrastructure to continue serving as a premier Gulf Coast shipyard.
– Business Wire
