Middle East’s 1st Electric Tug Sets Guinness World Record For Most Powerful Tugboat

SAFEEN Group has set a Guinness World Record for the most powerful electric tugboat. The record was set by testing the tug’s ability to pull with an impressive strength of 78.2 tonnes, a first for an all-electric vessel.

The tugboat, named Bu Tinah, was built by Damen Shipyards Group and is the first of its kind in the Middle East. This powerful tugboat was tested and certified at the AD Ports Group flagship facility, Khalifa Port.

The announcement of the achievement was made at ADIPEC, the world’s largest energy conference, which this year focused on energy transition and sustainability in the maritime industry.

Bu Tinah, is a key contributor in reducing the carbon footprint of the maritime industry. The electric tug operates with zero emissions from the Tank to the Propeller.

Apart from its environmental benefits, the vessel is more cost-effective than standard diesel-powered tugboats due to lower maintenance and fuel costs.

The CEO of AD Port Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, said that the world record shows that the shift to alternative energy does not have to compromise performance.

He expressed pride that Bu Tinah, as the region’s first electric tug, is setting a global standard for performance and sustainability.

On the other hand, the CEO of Damen Shipyards Group was equally enthusiastic about the partnership, saying that it reflects the common objective of advancing sustainable solutions within the industry.

After a successful trial period at Khalifa Port, Bu Tinah is now permanently part of the port’s operations.

The tugboat is expected to continue setting new standards for green, cost-effective maritime operations with advanced electric hybrid battery systems and plans for more shore power installations.

Reference: SAFEEN Group