The Transnet National Ports Authority in South Africa has ordered a Pilot Cutter 2706 and its fifth Stan Tug 2006 with Damen Shipyards Cape Town for operations in the expanding Port of Saldanha. Both vessels have been specifically designed for the South African market
The Pilot Cutter 2706 will be delivered in May 2013 and the tug in March 2013. TNPA already operates four Damen Stan Tugs in South Africa.
STu 2006
The STu 2006 is an enlarged design, based on the STu 1906. This parent vessel was adapted to the specific needs of the South African ports, namely increased payload and hull speed as well as increased stern gear protection while handling submerged equipment. The new tug will be used for general port services and pilot duties in Saldanha, South Africa’s largest deepwater port. Under a recently started programme by President Zuma, aimed at investing in infrastructure and generating jobs, Saldanha’s port is expanding rapidly. Currently the port’s main export product is iron ore, while its main import product is oil.
Pilot Cutter renewal programme
Embracing this initiative, TNPA has decided on a renewal programme of, amongst others, its pilot boats. The new Pilot Cutter 2706 has been designed by Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) in conjunction with Triton Naval Architects, and is customized for South African conditions. There is, for example, an entrance channel to the Port of Saldanha which is fairly narrow for large ships. Hence, the pilots board incoming vessels as far as 10-15 miles from the harbour entrance. This service condition has resulted in a specific hull shape capable of handling the adverse sea conditions experienced further out, whilst still maintaining speed. Picture: The Pilot Cutter 2706 will be delivered in May 2013
