04SEP2019 - News - Tugs purchased to enhance tanker bunkering in Ecuador

Ecuador-based DLEN has purchased the tugs to support Corpetrolsa’s fleet of tankers refuelling in the ports of Esmeraldas and La Libertad. Two azimuth stern drive (ASD) tugboats were acquired from Damen Shipyards Group to operate in the Ecuadorian ports. Both ASD tugs will also support other vessels entering these ports.

DLEN contracted Damen to deliver 24-m ASD Nanda, which was built to an ASD 2411 design. This tug sailed from the Netherlands to Ecuador on its own keel and started operations earlier in Q3 2019.

Damen has also sold 23-m tug ASD Isabella II, which was built to an ASD 2310 design, to DLEN. Both tugs were built as part of Damen’s stock in shipyards in China and Vietnam and outfitted in the Netherlands.

ASD Isabella II will make its maiden voyage from the Netherlands to Ecuador in September and its arrival in October will boost DLEN’s tug fleet to six, all designed and built by Damen.