Saltchuk Marine, LLC and Harbor Docking & Towing (HDT) today announced the formation of Green Tug Towing (GTT), a new joint venture company established to provide towage, escort, and terminal support services in the United States. GTT has been awarded a 20-year services contract by Woodside Energy to design, build, and operate four advanced hybrid escort tugboats to support LNG carrier operations at the company’s new Calcasieu Parish terminal.

A Strategic Partnership for the Future of U.S. Terminal Services

“This partnership brings two family-owned companies with shared values together to do important work. Saltchuk Marine and Harbor Docking & Towing both have long histories built on safety, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the people and communities we serve,” said Jason Childs, President and CEO, Saltchuk Marine. “We’re proud to partner with a member of the Lake Charles maritime community that has been trusted for generations, and we look forward to building a long and productive future together.”

Next-Generation Hybrid Tugs for LNG Operations

C&C Marine & Repair in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, will build GTT’s four new vessels to Robert Allan Ltd.’s RApport 2800H design, one of the most advanced escort tug platforms available, specifically engineered to meet the safety, maneuverability, and environmental requirements of modern LNG terminal operations. C&C’s facility and proven track record in complex new vessel construction make it uniquely suited to deliver a multi-vessel program of this scope.

Key vessel specifications and features include:

• Advanced diesel-electric hybrid propulsion, enabling significant fuel reduction and reduced emissions across standby operations, harbor transits, and low-speed maneuvering
• High-performance indirect steering forces and bollard pull engineered to handle the largest LNG carriers safely
• Optimized hull form and fendering designed for LNG berth operations and ship-assist missions

“Harbor Docking & Towing and Saltchuk Marine share a commitment to fit-for-purpose design and providing operational excellence to our customers. These tugs provide best-in-class technology and design and further expand maritime capacity and capability in southwest Louisiana. We look forward to growing the partnership to explore opportunities in other U.S. ports,” said John Buchanan, President, Harbor Docking & Towing.

Supporting Woodside Louisiana LNG

GTT will provide a full suite of services to support Woodside Louisiana LNG’s vessel traffic, including LNG carrier berthing and unberthing, escort and standby services, emergency response capability, and general harbor ship-assist, positioning the terminal for long-term operational efficiency and industry-leading environmental performance.

Source: BUSINESS WIRE