Schottel wins thruster contract from Saltchuk Marine
Eastern Shipbuilding, located in Panama City, USA, will build these tugs, marking the start of Saltchuk’s fleet renewal for operations along the US West Coast, Hawaii, and Alaska. The selection of Schottel’s advanced propulsion systems underscores the company’s commitment to safety and high performance in line with Saltchuk’s forward-looking fleet strategy.
Jason Childs, CEO of Saltchuk Marine, noted that “the maritime industry is experiencing a renaissance in vessel innovation,” with Schottel at the forefront in providing propulsion solutions that align with the company’s vision for next-generation tugs.
Each of the high-performance tugs, designed by Canadian naval architect Robert Allan (RApport 2600 design), will be equipped with two Schottel RudderPropellers, type SRP 510. These azimuthing thrusters feature a propeller diameter of 2,800 mm and are powered by Caterpillar 3516E engines, delivering an input power of 2,610 kW. The propulsion system will enable the tugs to achieve a bollard pull of over 85 tonnes and a service speed of 12 knots, providing Saltchuk with high operational capability.
In addition to the azimuthing thrusters, each tug will include Schottel’s LeaCon seal monitoring system, certified by DNV, which prevents lubricant leaks and protects against water ingress into the gearbox, ensuring compliance with EPA regulations. Schottel’s MariHub condition monitoring system further enhances the tugs’ maintenance capabilities by providing real-time data for both onboard and remote analysis.
This contract initiates Saltchuk Marine’s fleet renewal project, with the new tugs designed to meet the latest environmental standards, including EPA Tier 4 and California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements. The vessels, which will be operated by Foss Maritime, are planned to measure 25.60 meters in length, 12.80 meters in width, and 5.50 meters in draught, with accommodation for eight crew members. Construction will take place at Eastern Shipbuilding Group’s Allanton and Port St. Joe facilities, with delivery expected in 2026.
