New SMS Towage operation
Thu, 26 September 2013
SMS Towage has invested more than £5m in a new operation at Belfast harbour in response to demand from port users.
The new service is due to start this October with two modern and highly-manoeuvrable tug boats capable of handling a range of vessels.
SMS Towage says they will be manned 24 hours a day to provide a “just in time” service for the convenience of customers.
Patrick Lyon, managing director, SMS Towage, said: “We see Belfast as a strategic location. It is a vibrant port that will be home to a purpose built cruise terminal, a new offshore wind terminal and had a record year in 2012. We believe there is great potential for growth in the new business that will result in local employment.”
This new service follows an expansion into the South West ports last year with the aim of meeting a clear demand for services.
The 40 tbp (tonnes bollard pull) ASD Irishman and 50 tbp ASD Masterman will be mobilised to Belfast during September.
The independent Northern Irish company will trade under the brand of SMS Towage.
Source: http://www.maritimejournal.com/news101/industry-news/new-sms-towage-operation