Sulnorte Completes Latest Tug Newbuilding Series in Brazil

Brazilian tugboat owner Sulnorte Maritime Services has taken delivery of its latest newbuild harbour tug, SN Caraíva, to enhance its towage capabilities in the nation's busiest ports. Built by Rio Maguari Shipyard as part of a three-vessel series, the 23-metre azimuth stern drive tug offers more than 75 tonnes of bollard pull. Named in Rio de Janeiro, the vessel has been mobilised to Santos, marking an important step in the company's fleet expansion and renewal plan.

 

Details of the Delivery

 

Sulnorte has taken delivery of a new tug. It is the latest harbour tugboat. The vessel is named SN Caraíva. It was built at Rio Maguari Shipyard. This is located in Brazil.

The vessel expands the company's fleet. It raises towage and ship-handling capabilities. This targets Brazil's busiest ports. It is part of a three-vessel series. This reflects a broader expansion effort.

 

The Vessel Series

 

The vessel completes a defined series. It joins two 2025-built tugs. These are SN Acaraú and SN Cariri. All three share a common design. They were built to a Robert Allan design.

The series follows consistent specifications. They are 23-metre azimuth stern drive tugs. They have a moulded beam of 11 metres. Firefighting capability is included. Caterpillar engines drive Kongsberg Z-drives.

 

The Vessel Capabilities

 

The vessel offers strong performance. It provides more than 75 tonnes of bollard pull. This suits demanding towage work. It handles larger ships effectively. This capability is central to its role.

The series shares robust specifications. The vessels feature twin diesel engines. Fixed-pitch propellers drive them. Diesel generators power the electrical system. Towage winches complete the equipment.

 

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The Deployment

 

The vessels are entering active service. SN Caraíva was named in Rio de Janeiro. This occurred at the start of September. It has since moved to Santos. There it assists larger ships into harbour.

The fleet is spread across ports. SN Cariri also operates at Santos. SN Acaraú works in Salvador. This distributes the vessels across locations. It reflects the company's national coverage.

 

Significance for the Company

 

The vessels support the company's strategy. It invests in high-performance assets. These meet the demands of major ports. The company emphasised operational efficiency. Safety and robustness are also priorities.

The series marks a key milestone. It advances fleet expansion and renewal. Three new tugs join the fleet. This strengthens the company's capabilities. It positions it to serve Brazil's main ports.