Novatug opens up South American market

Novatug, the Rotterdam-based specialist behind the design of the revolutionary Carrousel towing system for tugboats, has opened the way for significant expansion into the strategic South American market by agreeing an agency deal with Rio de Janeiro-based Ocean Research Company of America (ORCA).

ORCA director and Brazilian maritime industry veteran Nilbe dos Santos says, “We have been very interested in the Carrousel system from the start, and have been in touch with Novatug for a number of years with a view to helping make this amazing system available in the Brazilian market. There are close links between our two companies, which have recently been strengthened. Novatug already has a partnership agreement with GE Marine, and ORCA is now an agent for GE Marine engines in Brazil. Now, ORCA is excited about making the Carrousel system, which combines an innovative towing design with robust propulsion, available in Brazil.”

Novatug general manager Rolf Kievits says, “Rio de Janeiro is the centre of the Brazilian maritime and offshore industry, while Brazil is the fastest growing economy in South America and a global player in bulk and ore logistics. Novatug has developed strong links with Brazil in recent years, and has a close working relationship with respected naval architect Interocean Engenharia. We are now keen to extend our presence in Brazil, and we believe that our agency agreement with ORCA will have significant benefits for both parties and for the industry in general.”