First of four US tugs launched

Ocean Wave and sister ship Ocean Wind are classed as DP1 tugboats and are twin-screw, steel-hulled tugs with an overall length of 146ft, beam of 46ft, hull depth of 25ft and design draught of 21ft. The second two tugs of the class, Ocean Sky and Ocean Sun, will be classed as DP2 and will be 10ft longer.

The new tugs will be able to work with Crowley’s new 455-series heavy lift deck barges, which measure 400ft x 105ft for loads up to 4,200lb/ft². Additionally, the tugs will be outfitted for, and capable of, rig moves, platform and FPSO unit tows, emergency response and firefighting. These Ocean class vessels will have the capability to support salvage and rescue towing opportunities.

Ocean Wave is scheduled for delivery in early 2012. The remaining tugs are expected to be completed by the end of 2013.