Damen Delivers ASD Tug En Avant 19 to Muller Dordrecht

Why It Matters

The addition strengthens Muller Dordrecht’s capability to service diverse maritime tasks while advancing industry emissions targets, signaling broader adoption of low‑carbon tug technology.

Key Takeaways

• En Avant 19 delivers 65‑tonne bollard pull.
• 28.57 m length, 11.43 m beam, high maneuverability.
• NOx reduction system cuts emissions 80% to meet IMO Tier III.
• Supports both offshore and inland operations.
• Part of Muller Dordrecht’s sustainability‑focused fleet renewal.

Pulse Analysis

Azimuthing stern drive (ASD) tugs like En Avant 19 are reshaping the tug market by combining precise maneuverability with robust pulling power. Damen’s modular design, produced at its Song Cam shipyard in Vietnam, allows rapid delivery to European ports, meeting the growing demand for versatile workboats that can transition between offshore support and inland harbor duties. The 28.57‑meter hull, equipped with a 65‑tonne bollard pull, exemplifies the trend toward larger, more capable tugs that can handle the increasing size of commercial vessels while maintaining tight turning radii essential for congested ports.

Environmental performance is a decisive factor for modern tug operators. Muller Dordrecht’s choice to install Damen’s marine NOx reduction system, based on selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, slashes nitrogen‑oxide emissions by 80%, aligning the vessel with IMO Tier III requirements. This low‑emission solution not only reduces the carbon footprint but also curtails noise, enhancing crew comfort and meeting stricter port regulations. As global shipping faces tighter emissions caps, such integrated solutions are becoming a benchmark for new‑build tugs, driving manufacturers to prioritize eco‑efficient propulsion and auxiliary systems.

For Muller Dordrecht, En Avant 19 represents a strategic step in its fleet modernization program aimed at boosting operational flexibility and sustainability. By expanding its ASD tug portfolio, the company can service a broader range of contracts, from offshore wind farm support to inland logistics, without compromising on environmental standards. This move reflects a wider industry shift where operators invest in high‑performance, low‑emission vessels to stay competitive and future‑proof against evolving regulatory landscapes, positioning Dutch maritime services at the forefront of green innovation.