B.C. Tugboat 2021

2021

SS Master: What’s old is gold

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Tugs with green propulsion surge ahead

TUGBOAT

Seaspan Shipyards adapts, pivots and navigates through 2020 to build and successfully deliver CCGS John Cabot

to all our valued customers, business partners and employees for being part of our rich history!

Amix Group celebrates 50 years serving the Pacific Northwest, offering professional Marine-Based Services, Transportation, and Infrastructure Projects.

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2021

CO N T E N T S Message from the editor...................................................................................................4 Tugs with green propulsion surge ahead......................................................................6 SS Master: What’s old is gold..........................................................................................8 Maritime transactions in British Columbia.................................................................12 Seaspan Raptor lives up to her name..........................................................................14

Creative Director / Design: KATHLEEN CABLE

Ocean Group established in Western Canada............................................................16

© Copyright 2021

AMIX Group celebrates 50th anniversary...................................................................18

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BC Ferries sets sail on the Whale Trail....................................................................... 20 Seaspan Shipyards adapts, pivots and navigates through 2020, responds and works to build and successfully deliver CCGS John Cabot........... 22 Med Marine’s new series tug now operates in Hadera........................................... 26

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BC Ferries receives prestigious environmental leadership awards, certification................................................................................... 29 DMT Marine Equipment – Preparing working boats for the low-emissions future.......................................... 30

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SAAM Towage Canada spans seven decades.............................................................33

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MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR 2020 was indeed a turbulent year. Much like the tugboat industry, the rest of us have had to navigate rocky waters, get used to a ‘new normal’ and make both small and big changes to our lifestyles in order to keep ourselves and each other safe and healthy.

However, the industry is a resilient one, and big things are happening across British Columbia.

The SS Master, one of the oldest ships of her kind, will be celebrating her 100th birthday next year. Keep reading to find out more about her long, exciting life, as well as what the SS Master Society are planning to keep her around a little longer.

BC Ferries has been stepping up their environmental efforts, having won two environmental leadership awards and an environmental certification. They are also a stop in an initiative called the Whale Trail, a series of sites to view marine mammals from the shore along the Pacific Coast.

If you have any story ideas or comments, feel free to email me at cindy@delcommunications.com. Ü

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B.C. Tugboat 2021

TUGS WITH GREEN

A new flagship escort tug: HaiSea’s RAstar 4000-DF.

PROPULSION

SURGE AHEAD An electrifying first: the ElectRA 2800 for HaiSea Marine.

Global tugboat industry’s eyes are fixated on B.C.’s leading edge fleet investments

A

year ago in this same column, a story was told of a building wave of state-of-the-art tugs for B.C., and how that wave could crest ever higher

in 2020 and beyond. This past year has certainly not disappointed.

Readers will be familiar with the recent acquisitions of Seaspan Raptor and Seaspan Harrier for operations in Vancouver, a powerful pair of 70-tonne bollard pull RAmparts 2400 class tugs designed

there is quite literally much more building to occur before this wave nears any crest.

Robert Allan Ltd.,

In March, it was announced that

and will be the firsts of its ElectRA

HaiSea Marine will be acquiring

series of electrically propelled

a cutting-edge fleet for the LNG

tugs. With an unrivalled maximum

Canada export facility in Kitimat.

HaiSea, the joint venture between the Haisla First Nation, whose unceded traditional territory includes Kitimat, and Seaspan Marine Transportation, will operate a trio of dedicated harbour tugs, as well as several ultra-high performance escort tugs to fulfil their 12-year commitment to provide tug services to the facility. The world will take notice.

battery capacity of over 6,000 kWh, HaiSea’s ElectRA 2800 tugs will easily be the most capable of their kind in the world. Their large battery banks will allow these tugs to perform most of their duties with zero emissions by virtue of stored energy replenished between missions at HaiSea’s charging station, itself connected to the hydroelectric grid. Together, this fleet of harbour tugs is expected to void over 5,000

by B.C.’s Robert Allan Ltd. and built

The harbour tugs have been custom

tonnes of CO2 emissions per year

by Turkey’s Sanmar Shipyards. But

designed for the operation by

(approximately equal to 1,000 cars),

6

B.C. Tugboat 2021

and nearly eliminate other airborne

Kitimat to the pilot station near Triple

safely generate indirect escort forces

contaminants. What a fantastic

Island, and vice versa, itself the

of up to 200 tonnes will leave them

example to the world of what is

longest known escort route in the

with few rivals anywhere in the world.

possible.

world, will be just as impressive. At just over 40 metres of length, these

Equipped with suites of state-ofthe art machinery, this fleet will

With increasing focus on

mega-tugs reflect the best available

underwater-radiated noise, it is also

technology for the mission. Close

noteworthy that these tugs’ battery

derivatives of Robert Allan Ltd.’s

electric propulsion should make them

highly acclaimed RAstar 4000-DF

exceptionally quiet, with testing to be

series, which have proven themselves

perhaps more importantly, these

performed upon delivery. The entire

in challenging conditions in a

tugs will demonstrate to all that the

tug fleet is also designed to receive

similar role off the northern coast

era of low-emissions propulsion can

the American Bureau of Shipping’s

of Norway, they feature dual fuel

be now, that the technologies are

(ABS) “ENVIRO” environmental

(LNG and diesel) engines. The large

mature and ready, and that what

protection notation, which should be

LNG storage tank fitted on each of

will soon be showcased to the world

a worldwide first for tugs according

these escort tugs will allow them to

is an example of a path to a lower-

to ABS.

perform their missions on cleaner

carbon and more environmentally

burning LNG and they will be

friendly future. Let’s all hope that

The escort tugs, tasked with escorting

capable of delivering exceptionally

others will very soon follow in the

any size of LNG carrier along a

high performance while operating

path being trailblazed from right

159-nautical-mile journey from

on the fuel. Specifically, their ability to

here at home.

legitimately be the pride of the local community and the envy of operators across the globe. But

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Before hull maintenance.

SS Master: What’s old is gold

By Cindy Chan

After hull maintenance.

T

he SS Master is one of the oldest ships of her kind, but she still has a lot of life in her.

Built in Vancouver, B.C. in 1922, the SS Master is representative of many wooden steam-powered tugboats built in the 1920s and 1930s, according to naval architect Robert Allan, executive chairman of Robert Allan Ltd. Paul Hebson, vice-president and general 8

B.C. Tugboat 2021

manager of Seaspan’s Vancouver Drydock, says she is one of the oldest, most historically significant tugboats in North America. She was operational until the late 1950s.

the World Ship Society purchased

SS Master spent a lot of her career in the service of the construction industry, towing barges filled with sand, gravel and limestone products.

She worked in that service until about 1959 and was then retired. She lay derelict for a number of years before

operational wooden-hulled, steam-

her in the mid-1960s and restored her. Now, the SS Master Society owns the ship, maintaining her to this day.

All indications are that she is the last powered tugboat in the world.

“We take pride in trying to maintain her and keep her going,” Barry Martens, president of the SS Master Society, says.

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“Iron or steel ships have a hard time lasting 50 to 60 years, and 50 years is a long time for a wooden boat,” David Bradford, vice-president of the SS Master Society, says. “Reaching 100 years is exceptional.”

Yes, the SS Master will be celebrating her 100th birthday in 2022. The SS Master Society is launching a centennial fundraising initiative for a comprehensive restoration of the ship.

The work will hopefully commence in 2022 on her 100th birthday with a return to operational service by 2025.

The scope of work includes renewal and repairs to damaged hull planking and framing, some deck structure replacement, bulwark reconstruction,

deckhouse renovation/repair, boiler overhaul/repair, engine overhaul/ repair, repair and refit of steampiping, overhaul of towing winch and anchor windlass and propeller repair.

Hebson says Seaspan’s involvement with the SS Master in January was to donate both the tow to Vancouver Shipyards and the maintenance work to preserve the integrity of the hull before a full restoration takes place.

Since the boat weighs 225 tons, Seaspan used specialized equipment to get it out of the water and onto the land.

“The boat sits in the water all year long, and in any water in and around the coast, there is the chance of

growth on the hull,” Martens says.

“We took the boat out of the water, the hull was power-washed, followed by scraping depending on where the paint is chipping. Afterwards, anti-fouling paint was applied. SS Master was towed to the Vancouver Shipyards on Jan. 4, returning to its winter home at Britannia Historic Shipyard in Steveston, B.C. on Jan. 9.

“We’re currently looking to raise about $3.5 million for a complete restoration effort so the Master can continue to tell the story of tugboats in B.C. for another 50 years,” Martens says.

For more information, visit ssmaster.org. Ü

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Maritime transactions in British Columbia

By Catherine A. Hofmann, a Vancouver Lawyer with Bernard LLP

T

here is no question that 2020 has fulfilled the blessing (or is it a curse?) that we should live in “interesting times”. Interesting times also seem to make for more complicated times and as maritime transactions become increasingly complex, the business, financial, tax and

Catherine Hofmann

Before buying any previously owned vessel, it is essential to conduct due diligence searches to ensure that there are no recorded or other liens over the vessel. Traditional maritime liens, possessory liens and statutory liens, including vessel mortgages, can all impact a seller’s ability to deliver title to the vessel free and clear of all

regulatory issues can become tricky to navigate. To

encumbrances. Unfortunately, of these various kinds of

cover all of these matters here would make for laborious

liens, only statutory vessel mortgages are required or

reading; however, it is useful to review some of the critical

able to be registered in the Transport Canada Vessel

issues faced in most vessel purchase transactions.

Registry. Consequently, we recommend the following due diligence searches: ships registry, Bank Act, BC Personal Property Registry, court registries, bailiff, bankruptcy and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. A potential buyer should also make enquiries of the seller regarding all repair and maintenance work carried out on the vessel, including where the work was conducted, and copies of all invoices and receipts for the work done as well as any crew or insurance claims which may have been levied against the vessel. Due diligence searches are often more difficult to conduct if the vessel is flagged in a foreign jurisdiction and additional time and money should be allotted for all

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If the vessel to be purchased is in fact foreign flagged, special consideration should be given to any taxes and duties, which may be owing upon its importation into Canada. The amount of any customs duties payable upon importation depend on the tariff classification of the vessel and its country of original construction, not on the country where it is currently registered. In order to benefit from any preferential tariff treatment available under Canada’s various trade treaties, a certificate of origin for the vessel

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12

B.C. Tugboat 2021

ship registry. Other recommended closing documents,

Although it is a common misconception, importation,

whether the transaction occurs strictly in Canada or

registration and any required Transport Canada

internationally, include corporate resolutions (with

inspection are not intrinsically linked. Each requires a

appropriate powers of attorney if required), certificates

separate step and separate considerations.

of good standing for the selling entity, warranties of title, a certificate of no liens and a protocol of delivery and acceptance, stipulating when the transfer of risk is to occur.

The Canada Shipping Act, 2001 (the “Act”) sets out the statutory requirements for the ownership and registration of ships in Canada and the applicable regime depends, in part, on the nature of the vessel. In particular, section

Subject to a few exceptions, provincial sales tax and

46 of the Act requires that all vessels which are not

federal goods and services taxes will generally be

pleasure craft, in excess of 15 gross tons, owned by a

applicable where vessels are brought into B.C. for use

“qualified person” and not registered in a foreign state,

within the province by a B.C. resident or by a principal for

must be registered with the Ship Registry. Commercial

whom the B.C. resident acts as agent. The tax is calculated

vessels under 15 tons must be registered in the Small

on the fair market value of the landed vessel plus any

Vessel Registry. The Act does not, however, set out any

duties payable. Provincial sales tax does not, however,

formalities that must be complied with before title to a

apply where the vessel is self-propelled and over 500

vessel will pass to a new owner. A recent decision of the

gross tons, or where the person bringing the goods into

B.C. Supreme Court confirms that view. As a result, it will be

the province does so for the purposes of resale or lease.

important to ensure that the contractual terms governing

If you plan to charter the vessel you are bringing into

the transfer of title, responsibility for registration, risk and

Canada, even if within an affiliated corporate group, you

liability for the vessel are clear between the parties to any

may be eligible for certain tax exemptions.

purchase and sale.

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Seaspan Raptor lives up to her name

By Kate Lessels, Communications Advisor, Seaspan ULC

W

ith names like Seaspan Eagle, Osprey, Raven and Kestrel, it should come as no surprise that Seaspan Marine

recently added another bird of prey to their fleet of powerful tugboats — the Seaspan Raptor. And, this compact tug seems right at home with other members of the Seaspan fleet working in the Port of Vancouver.

In September 2020, Seaspan Marine announced they had taken delivery of the Seaspan Raptor — the first of two 24-metre 75t bollard pull ASD tractor tugs from Sanmar Shipyards in Yalova, Turkey. These state-ofthe-art Ramparts 2400 SX tugs are escort rated and feature Class 1 fire-fighting capability. Built in 2015, the Seaspan Raptor was initially operated by Sanmar in their own fleet.

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B.C. Tugboat 2021

PHOTO COURTESY OF KEVIN CASLOR.

“These are the fifth and sixth tugs Seaspan has acquired from Sanmar, designed by Robert Allan Ltd.,” said Frank Butzelaar, CEO, Seaspan Marine Transportation. “They are an example of Seaspan’s continued long-term commitment to service our ship docking customers in a market where the average ship size continues to increase over time.”

With steady traffic in the Vancouver

PLEASE RECYCLE

As deep-sea vessels continue to increase in physical size, Seaspan needed a solution that would provide a Terminal Class capabilities in a more compact package. ship assist sector over the last several

full Special Survey Docking and

23, 2021 and has been living up to

years, Seaspan Marine began

some minor modifications to her

expectations ever since. Busy with

looking for additional vessels to meet

wheelhouse, mast, fuel system and

work ranging from meeting arriving

industry needs. Additionally, while

black and greywater systems to

deep-sea vessels in English Bay,

the existing Robert Allan RAstar 2800

meet Seaspan’s and Canadian flag

to assisting vessels arriving and

Terminal Class operated by Seaspan

requirements. On December 8, 2020,

departing Port Moody, with the

are well-liked by both tug crews

following a 12,500-nautical mile,

numerous tight spaces in between,

and pilots, they can be too large

55-day voyage, the tug arrived home

the Seaspan Raptor is quickly

for several of the tighter berths in

safely in Vancouver.

becoming well-acquainted with every

Burrard Inlet that Seaspan services. As deep-sea vessels continue to increase in physical size, Seaspan needed

Awaiting her arrival was a team of Seaspan port captains, fleet

square nautical mile of Vancouver Harbour.

maintenance and mariners ready to

Next up is her sister vessel, the

prepare the tug for operation. Over

Seaspan Harrier, built in 2016, also

the next few weeks, the vessel was

previously part of the Sanmar fleet.

registered in Canada, fitted out with

This tug is undergoing full survey and

new towlines and equipment, and

modifications and preparing for a

crews were trained in all aspects

delivery voyage from Turkey. The

Before departing Sanmar Shipyards,

of operations. The Seaspan Raptor

Seaspan Harrier is expected to begin

the Seaspan Raptor underwent a

was all set for her first job on January

service in the summer of 2021.

a solution that would provide a Terminal Class capabilities in a more compact package. These extremely powerful compact and efficient vessels fit the bill.

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15

Ocean Group established in Western Canada 16

B.C. Tugboat 2021

O

cean BC Towing Inc., a related corporation of Ocean Group, has been offering harbour towing services in the Port of Vancouver since the beginning of 2020. In order to meet the needs of this client, Ocean Group proceeded to acquire two new 28-metre tugs newly built in a Damen shipyard located in Vietnam.

These tugs were added to the existing fleet. These new tugs will be joined by the OCEAN STEVNS, a tug already present in the group’s fleet, which previously operated in Kingston, Jamaica, notably following the signing of a service contract with Cargill Limited.

Recently, in March, the Group announced the arrival of the fourth harbour tug in Vancouver. The OCEAN GEORGIE BAIN, a 24-metre tug built in 2009 at Ocean Industries Inc. joins the three tugs already present on the West Coast. In total, four state-of-the-art tugs, which were also mobilized on site, are providing harbour towing services in Vancouver.

After more than three years in Alberta, Ocean Group has extended its services to the Canadian West Coast.

The company is pleased to highlight the awarding of several contracts in British Columbia to some of its related corporations that operate in different sectors of activity.

Also in 2020, Ocean Dredging DM

two Prince Rupert port facilities, Ridley

“It goes without saying that a great

Inc. won the largest mechanical

Island and the container terminal on

deal of development work has been

dredging contract in its history.

Kaien Island.

done on Canada’s West Coast and

The work consists mainly of marine

Ocean Marine Works Inc. had made

dredging, underwater shoreline

a breakthrough in Western Canada

filling, riprap and marine habitat

in June 2019 by leasing container

compensation, including the construction of artificial reefs, for Coast Tsimshian Northern Contractors Alliance (CTNCA). CTNCA is involved in the construction of a 5.4-kilometre road in Prince Rupert, B.C. to connect

that we are constantly monitoring business opportunities in order to establish our services there in a viable

barges to various clients in B.C. for

manner. However, we can already

dock construction projects. A few

say that Ocean Group is present from

months later, we have nearly 40 of

coast to coast,” declared Jacques

these barges on lease to these same

Tanguay, president and CEO of

clients.

Ocean Group.

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B.C. Tugboat 2021

17

AMIX Group celebrates 50th anniversary

Vancouver-based business celebrates five decades of serving the Pacific Northwest

F

rom humble origins in 1971 as a family-owned, secondhand store in Vernon, B.C., AMIX Group is now a diversified group of companies for the industrial sector with six divisions. These businesses include marine transportation, projects and transloading, steel sales, metal recycling and ready-mix concrete.

AMIX Group was founded by Ed Jackson as a secondhand store with a small salvage yard operated out of his backyard. He moved his business and family to the coast and became established as a metal recycling company. In 1990, his son Willie joined the business, and together over the next 20 years, they grew AMIX into the largest volume dealer of recycled metal in Western Canada.

In 2011, Willie diversified the company into other industries listed above and continued to grow the business.

Looking back over 50 years in business, Willie said, “It’s a great time to reflect on the successes and failures that brought us here. We’re looking to build on that and get set for the next 50.”

Throughout its 50-year history, AMIX has had many incredible people

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B.C. Tugboat 2021

heart of our value set, that dedication has shaped and defined AMIX since its earliest days.

To honour our 50th anniversary, AMIX is releasing a new website to better showcase our equipment, facilities and service offerings to our customers. Highlights will include Prince Rupert and our redeveloped woodchip transload operation, our new Marine Projects hub at Duke Point, Vancouver Island and our new home for Marine Services in Campbell River.

AMIX Group has a history to look back on with pride. We have made a lasting impact in the various sectors we serve. As we celebrate, we turn our focus forward and look ahead to the future, and another 50 years of providing our customers with innovation, reliability and the same customer-first approach that has been the hallmark of our success.

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19

BC Ferries sets sail on the Whale Trail

BC

By Cindy Chan

Nicole Green, terminal attendant at Langdale Terminal, showcasing the Whale Trail location.

Ferries does more than transport passengers across the province – it also aims to bring people closer to

the majestic animals that inhabit its waters.

According to Astrid Chang, BC Ferries’ manager of communications, BC

marine mammals from the shore

based in Seattle, Washington,

along the Pacific Coast,” according to

working closely with site hosts,

the Whale Trail website (thewhaletrail.

biologists, community members and

org). The Whale Trail grew from 16

sponsors to accomplish its goals

inaugural sites to now more than

of building awareness, connecting

100, spanning the West Coast from

visitors to marine animals, promoting

California to British Columbia. Some

whale-watching and protecting

of those sites are located at the BC

marine ecosystems and inspiring

Ferries terminals in Metro Vancouver,

stewardship and building community.

Comox and the Sunshine Coast.

“We’re pleased to have signs at some

Ferries is a stop on the Whale Trail,

According to the website, the Whale

of our terminals,” Chang says. “These

which is a “series of sites to view

Trail is a non-profit organization

are signs to let people know they

20

B.C. Tugboat 2021

Whale Trail signage at Little River Terminal.

can view marine mammals on the Pacific Coast. Joining the Whale Trail is one way our customers can learn about our waters and BC Ferries’ ongoing support for research and conservation.” Chang adds this is a partnership between the Whale Trail and BC Cetacean Sightings Network, with funding from Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Chang says passengers at any of the several terminals acting as a Whale Trail site – for example, from Tsawwassen to Little River – can learn about whales and marine mammals in general in the area.

“We want to remind people that we are sharing the ocean spaces with whales, dolphins and porpoises,” Chang says.

According to a release, BC Ferries

has been working with the Port of Vancouver Enhancing Cetacean Habitat and Observation (ECHO) program since 2014. BC Ferries also partnered with Port of Vancouver and Ocean Wise to develop a “Whales in our Waters” tutorial for mariners in 2019 and contributed to the “Mariners Guide to Whales, Porpoises and Dolphins of Western Canada” with the Coastal Ocean Research Institute and Port of Vancouver in 2016. Joining the Whale Trail is one more way BC Ferries is helping to build awareness of local whale species to contribute to their conservation for generations to come.

While viewing the new terminal signage, customers are reminded of the requirement for customers to wear non-medical masks or face coverings at terminals and while on board ferries. Ü

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21

Seaspan Shipyards adapts, pivots and navigates through 2020 to build and successfully deliver CCGS John Cabot

By Cindy Chan

S

easpan Shipyards completed its third vessel of its first-class ships under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.

According to Amy MacLeod, vicepresident of corporate affairs for Seaspan Shipyards, the company has been on the west coast of Canada – where the operations base is – for generations. The company has three shipyards.

Two are in North Vancouver, B.C., where one is focused on the National Shipbuilding Strategy for Canada, which is the recapitalization of the Canadian fleet; the other yard performs commercial work. The third shipyard is in Victoria, where the Seaspan team works on vessels for the Canadian government and other navies, as well as on maintenance, refit and repair.

MacLeod says Seaspan Shipyards currently boasts more than 2,700 employees across all three yards.

“In 2011, Canada announced and selected shipyards for its National Shipbuilding Strategy,” MacLeod explains. “The No. 1 focus is recapitalizing and rebuilding the Canadian fleet, including vessels

22

B.C. Tugboat 2021

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for the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard.”

Fisheries Science Vessels (OFSVs).

“It’s a research vessel for the

As a result, the Government of

Canadian Coast Guard,” MacLeod

Canada selected two shipbuilding

says. “The OFSVs are crewed by

partners in Seaspan Shipyards and

Coast Guard staff, scientists and

Irving Shipbuilding on the east coast.

fisheries personnel who study the

Seaspan was awarded the non-

ocean and fisheries stock. It’s a

combat, large vessel package of work,

sophisticated floating lab, if you want

which includes the three Offshore

to think of it that way.”

The OFSVs support scientific research through work such as performing fishing and acoustic surveys of fish and invertebrates, collecting information on the abundance and distribution of marine species and collecting data on marine ecosystems and the impacts of human activity on fisheries resources and ecosystem health.

The OFSVs, although primarily focused

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on science and research, also have the capability to support search and rescue, and environmental response and operations as required.

Seaspan recently completed the third and final OFSV of its class – CCGS John Cabot, which was delivered to the Canadian Coast Guard in October 2020. It’s the third one they delivered in 15 months.

“We launched CCGS John Cabot on July 3 and delivered it on October 9,” MacLeod recalls. “That is a significant accomplishment considering all that had happened during that time with

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Measuring 63.4 metres, CCGS John Cabot is one of the most advanced ships of its size and type in the world.

As the third OFSV, she will join her sister ships, CCGS Sir John Franklin and CCGS Capt Jacques Cartier.

MacLeod says 2020 was simultaneously the most successful

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and challenging year in Seaspan’s recent history, requiring them to deliver a ship in a way they never had before.

“During a global pandemic, we have managed to keep all three yards

24

B.C. Tugboat 2021

open and operating,” MacLeod

work in new ways we couldn’t have

work that is typically accomplished on

says. “Of course, we had to do so

envisioned on January 1, 2020.”

the water.

The Seaspan team rose to the

“The hallmark for us was the ship

challenge and managed to not only

entered the water at 95 per cent

very carefully by abiding by all of the safety precautions, making sure, first and foremost, that our staff and

complete and deliver the ship, but

complete,” MacLeod says. “2020

employees were safe to come to

to also achieve and exceed world-

is the year Seaspan emerged as

work and build ships. It has been

class benchmarks. For instance, they

a modern and mature world-class

challenging, and our team has

finished a substantial amount of the

shipbuilder. That’s something we will

had to adapt, pivot, respond and

work on the hard stand in the yard –

reflect on for years to come.” Ü

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25

Med Marine’s new series tug now operates in Hadera

M

ed Marine delivered a new series tug, MED-A3280-SD (shallow draft) tugboat, to The National Coal Supply Corporation (NCSC)’s fleet operating in Hadera. NCSC is a state company that handles the procurement and transportation of coal in Israel.

Named after the port she will be operating, HADERA was successfully delivered to NCSC around the middle of December 2020.

MED-A3280-SD model tug, which belongs to Robert Allan’s RAmparts 3200-SD design, is the shallow draft adaptation of RAmparts 3200 series that is well-known for its versatile/ multi-purpose nature and enhanced ship-handling, coastal towing, escort and general purpose duties.

RAmparts 3200 is one of the most 26

B.C. Tugboat 2021

widely accepted designs in the industry with more than 400 of this series in worldwide service today.

Med Marine has successfully built and delivered more than two dozen tugboats with this design. Yet, HADERA is the first RAmparts 3200SD vessel with shallow draft. Being a shallow draft tug, it is quite easy for her to operate in shallow and difficult waters such as rivers, etc.

Eylül Turhan, business development chief for Med Marine, says, “It is an excitement and a great pleasure for us to work with The National Coal Supply Corporation for our former but shallow water adapted design. Thanks to Robert Allan Ltd.’s expertise, we were able to build this lower draft MED-A3280-SD series tug with full performance capabilities.

Besides limited draft requirement, NCSC’s request for noise levels even lower than IMO regulations enabled

us to improve ourselves further. We are happy to serve our customers with our experience and proven designs with tailor made revisions.”

The NCSC also commented on this successful delivery with following words: “NCSC as owners and the Port of Hadera as operators of the vessel are most grateful for the final result that manifested itself in our new built tug, Hadera, which was constructed in Med Marine’s yard in Eregli. It is a result of close and determined cooperation between the companies, in the most difficult of times.”

About The National Coal Supply Corporation (NCSC) The National Coal Supply Corporation (NCSC) handles the procurement of coal and its transportation from source countries to the Israeli Electric Corporation’s coal power stations – the Rottenberg

B.C. Tugboat 2021

27

THE TUGBOAT’S SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

About Med Marine

LOA.................................................................31,50 m

Med Marine is a leading Turkish

BEAM ..........................................................12,60 m

shipbuilder and leading tugboat

DRAFT .........................................................4,87 m

operator. The firm employs Eregli

BOLLARD PULL ...................................75 tbp

Shipyard, one of the largest

SPEED ..........................................................12,5 kts.

shipyards in Turkey with its

MAIN ENGINE .................................2 x CAT 3516C, 2 x .2.350 Kw @ 1.800 rpm

185,000-square-metre area and

PROPELLER ...............................................2x SCHOTTEL SRP 460 CP with 2.700 mm diameter

220L x 38W metres slipway capacity,

FORE TOWING WINCH .........THR MARINE EATW 22 U3 - 300 kN DECK CRANE ......................................Toimil T-10500M/2 SWL10,5t.m reach 8 m GENERATOR SET .............................2 x CATERPILLAR C4.4 99ekW FIFI 1 SYSTEM ...................................... 2 x 1.375 m3/hr pump, 2 x foam/water monitor, water spray system ACCOMMODATION ..................8 persons

to build its state-of-the-art tugboats and Stainless Steel (STST) IMO II type chemical/oil tankers. The shipyard is constantly being improved with advanced production standards by keeping up with latest health, safety and environmental regulations. Med Marine has successfully completed

station in Ashkelon and the Orot Rabin station in Hadera, where it provides tugs as owner and assists the operations as agent.

A government-held company, the National Coal Supply Corporation is under full ownership of the Israeli Electric Corporation.

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B.C. Tugboat 2021

the construction and delivery of almost 200 projects, including tugboats, chemical/oil tankers, mooring and pilot boats.

Ü

BC Ferries receives prestigious environmental leadership awards, certification

I

By Cindy Chan

t’s an honour to be nominated, but BC Ferries is also pleased that it won two environmental leadership awards and received an environmental certification for its continued efforts to be greener.

BC Ferries received a Blue Circle Award from the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, a Green Wave

Award from the Prince Rupert Port Authority and Green Marine certification, which is highly prestigious.

Astrid Chang, manager of communications for BC Ferries, says this is the third time BC Ferries won a Blue Circle Award from the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, which recognizes industry partners that excel in environmental leadership and stewardship, and obtain the highest level of participation in the EcoAction Program and Energy Action Initiative.

“They acknowledged our voluntary efforts to conserve energy and reduce emissions in the Port of Vancouver,” Chang explains.

for the sixth year in a row. Green Marine is a voluntary environmental certification program for ship owners, port authorities, terminal operators, seaway corporations and shipyards, according to a release. The program aims to reduce the environmental footprint of marine operators.

Beyond their awards, BC Ferries has a few long-term environmental strategies in its Clean Futures Plan and LongTerm Underwater Noise Management Plan, which describe how the company plans to continue to provide its leading services in coastal B.C. and to fulfil its responsibilities of sailing safely and protecting the environment.

“As stakeholders in the sea, we have a responsibility to understand how our activities may affect marine wildlife,” Chang says. “What we do is we engage with scientists to make baseline measurements for noise characteristics and so on.”

As well, when BC Ferries builds its ships, each new class built is generally quieter than the ones before to

For the second year, BC Ferries also won a Green Wave

reduce noise pollution. One way this is done through

Award from the Prince Rupert Port Authority, which

improvements in hull design to reduce wave-making noise.

recognizes participation in the Green Wave environmental incentive program, which encourages people to mitigate the impact of vessels in the water, air and around the port.

As well, BC Ferries has received Green Marine certification

“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of our operations, but one thing that hasn’t wavered is our ongoing commitment to reduce our environmental footprint,” Chang says. Ü B.C. Tugboat 2021

29

DMT Marine Equipment – Preparing working boats for the low-emissions future Over 1,000 tugs and other vessels have selected DMT as their winch and deck gear partner

2

020 was a momentous year for the worldwide maritime sector. January 1 marked the first day of a new era of IMOmandated low sulphur fuels. However, while that was perhaps the most widely publicized move by the shipping sector to clean up its act, it was not the only major upheaval. There was also unprecedented activity as vessel owners and operators sought a wide range of new ways to transform their environmental footprints in the face of combined demand from their customers and from society as a whole. Yet despite 2020 being an unusual year with historic challenges, DMT Marine Equipment ended it with a strong outcome, continuing to be a preferred supplier for a great number of tugboat owners and builders.

Taking a lead in eco-responsibility From the outset, DMT had been working with the industry to ensure that its winches and associated equipment played their part in the transition to a cleaner world. The new IMO regulations demanded a response and DMT moved quickly to develop and adapt innovative solutions. These involved the latest materials and technologies that together could support the maritime market in its increased focus on 30

B.C. Tugboat 2021

reducing its global environmental impact. Throughout 2020 and to this day, DMT is working on developing solutions to minimize the weight of its products without sacrificing functionality or durability. This is being achieved by substituting parts and materials that were environmentally sensitive with components that are less susceptible to oxidation and mechanical failure, thus guaranteeing longer service lives as well as greener outcomes.

“Now, more than ever, the world needs to acknowledge the role of climate change in economic development,” Piet ter Schure, general manager for DMT Marine Equipment, tells BC Tugboat, “and, as we all know, one of the fundamental components of development is

energy, currently derived mainly from fossil fuels. Our winch range has been re-engineered for minimal environmental impact using the latest technology and materials, ensuring that our clients can fulfil their operations while minimizing their carbon footprints.

“The historically central role that the global maritime industry plays in economics and trade obliges us all to be leaders in addressing risks to the environment and everyone within it, and so strive to become models of eco-responsibility.”

Team effort In embracing the challenges of the IMO energy transition, DMT’s ethos of setting out to create synergies

with its partners through a sense of ‘togetherness’ has delivered real benefits. Relentless attention to detail, precision and quality throughout the production process has certainly been one vital element.

But ultimately its success would not have been possible without the dedication of the company’s passionate team in combination with the trust of its valued partners.

“Our philosophy of making no concessions on quality and ensuring that all our products are solid and robust matches perfectly with the requirements of high standard markets like Canada, North and South America,” adds Piet ter Schure. “Over the course of our 20 years of activity, we have always started each project by listening

www.dmt-winches.com

Over 1000 tugboats equipped and over 2700 vessels of all shapes and sizes equipped worldwide

B.C. Tugboat 2021

31

to our clients’ business needs. The result is that our sales and aftersales services have consistently been dedicated to providing value for our customers, and this is especially important in the current circumstances.”

engineered at its ISO 9001:2008, 18001:2007-certified head office in Europe, and are designed and built on a custom basis in full compliance with the codes of all the major maritime class societies including DNV-GL, BV, LR, RMRS and RINA.

optional features. DMT also designs

This commitment to teamwork extends to DMT’s service partners.

For example, good communication both ways ensures that critical and high wear components are always available at short notice should immediate replacement be necessary. However, this is rarely required as, with regular scheduled maintenance, DMT systems will last as long as their vessels.

By incorporating best-in-class innovations into its projects, DMT maintains its policy of delivering the best possible products at the best possible prices, and always with the goal of maximizing customer satisfaction in an industry where any unscheduled downtime can result in substantial financial losses for the end-users. Maintaining the highest standards of quality is the best way to ensure safe operations, cost optimisation and operational efficiency.

equipped over 2,700 vessels, of

Continuous improvement While the new IMO regulations have undoubtedly been a major stimulus for innovation, in today’s technologically driven world continuous improvement has long been a core feature of complex, high-quality products. DMT’s resources in this respect include the capacity and experience to provide non-destructive testing procedures prior to delivery. All DMT winches are 100 per cent in-house

info@albionmarine.com +1 778 994 9993

32

B.C. Tugboat 2021

with standard DMT CPP (core PLC programmes) for easy global remote intervention.

During that time the company has

making it stand out as a reliable supplier of towing equipment. Saam Tarqui, Bogacay XXXVIII, Tsimshian Warrior, Italia, Odin of Scapa and Thor of Scapa are just a few of the vessels that count on DMT winches to successfully achieve their purposes.

In addition to the towage sector, DMT has consistently delivered projects to other vessels right across the commercial marine and naval markets. Winches, deck equipment and other offshore solutions have been supplied to the megayacht, harbour and terminal, fishing,

In the 20 years since it began, DMT has grown to be active across three continents with sales offices, production facilities, and assembly and testing halls of the highest standards. All are focused on the manufacturing and maintenance of tailor-made winches that can be fitted with a wide range of

www.albionmarine.com

hydraulic control systems provided

which more than 1,000 are tugboats,

A track record to be proud of

Project management, consultancy, engineering, conversion and retrofit services. Management of fleet upgrade, dry docking and new build programs.

Ballast water management systems and scrubbers retrofits. LNG and offshore conversions.

and assembles electric and

dredging and research sectors.

No wonder then, that following a year with a sharp focus on working with customers to meet their IMO compliance goals, the company started 2021 by receiving an award for being the “Best Towing Winch Supplier of 2020”.

Ü

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SAAM Towage Canada spans seven decades

A

ccording to company president Sander Bikkers, every port could use some of SAAM Towage’s iconic yellow tugs.

we operate. They know all the ins

towage services, and recognized as

and outs of the ports, the beautiful

an important logistics operator that

coastline and waterways of British

stands for its industry knowledge,

Columbia.”

geographic coverage, capacity for

SAAM Towage Canada

the exchange of goods that are

SAAM’s purpose is facilitating

has been operating for 70 years.

essential for people’s well-being

However, for the parent company, it

and to drive the economic and

did not start out in Canada; in fact,

social development of countries

it began as a Chilean company

through exceptional and efficient

established in 1961 (the group is

port, towage and logistics services

celebrating its 60th birthday this

that bring competitiveness to foreign

year). Regardless of its ownership, Bikkers says SAAM Towage Canada is a true Canadian company. “All of our 23 tugboats in Canada are

trade, profitability to shareholders, opportunities to neighbouring communities and respect for the environment.

internationalization, service quality and commitment to customers. SAAM Towage Canada contributes to the international vision by providing tug services beyond expectations.

“SAAM Towage Canada evolved from barge towing and logging into a towage and ship-docking company,” Bikkers says. “SAAM Towage Canada was the amalgamation of different, small companies located here in the

managed and serviced by people

SAAM aims to become the leading

West Coast of Canada into one big

who grew up in the area where

company in port operations and

company, RIVTOW, until the 2000s B.C. Tugboat 2021

33

Coming from the oil and gas industry where safety is the No. 1 most important task of any CEO, he will not rest until he gets safety on top of everyone’s mind and actions in his company.

some lip service. It has to become secund nature to stay safe while providing towage services beyond expectations,” he adds.

“We’re also aiming to further reduce our environmental footprint,” he says.

when we were acquired by a Dutch

operator in the Americas. Most of its

After introducing the first IMO Tier

company called Smit International.

clients are international operators.

III tug in Canada, SAAM Towage is

During those 10 years of ownership, the company expanded and acquired additional activities and new companies in Prince Rupert and Vancouver. In 2014, Boskalis, the

Bikkers says one of his personal goals on the job is to achieve zero injuries, zero accidents and zero spills.

company who acquired Smit in 2009,

“That’s something we put a lot of

set up a joint venture with SAAM, a

emphasis on. When you leave your

Chilean company, that lasted until

home in one piece you want to

2019.”

come home in one piece,” Bikkers says. Coming from the oil and gas

working towards further reducing its underwater noise pollution and its carbon footprint.

Additionally, Bikkers says his overall goal for SAAM Towage Canada is to continue growing. “The colour of our tugs looks great; we believe that every sizeable port could use some yellow,” he says. “We’re working on expanding to provide our customers

From 2019, SAAM continued as the

industry where safety is the No. 1

sole owner and operator of SAAM

most important task of any CEO, he

Towage after the Dutch company

will not rest until he gets safety on

sold its share. With 176 tugs, SAAM

top of everyone’s mind and actions

Towage operates in 12 countries

in his company. “As safety is one

For more information, visit

and today is the leading towage

of our five core values, it is not just

saamtowage.com.

34

B.C. Tugboat 2021

with a single, known operator in many other ports, both inside and outside Canada.”

Ü

AVISO-ST-CANADA-TZ[7x4.625in].pdf

1

27-04-21

13:53

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35

Bracewell Marine Group: Embracing custom orders

B

racewell Marine Group provides expert marine craft and repair services to all types of vessels, from landing barges to fishing boats and tugboats to yachts.

Established in 2000, Bracewell Marine Group is located at Shelter Island Marina & Boatyard, a full-service marina, on 20 acres of paved land in Richmond, B.C. Bracewell Marine Group has two lifts (75and 220-ton) on site, and can accommodate vessels up to 120 feet in length with a beam up to 29 feet. Bracewell Marine Group also has a machine shop on site, and can make and repair marine bearings, shafts and winches, as well as any custom work as required.

Three years ago, Bracewell Marine Group anticipated a decrease in the supply of affordable quality winches, so they designed a line of their own. Located on the West Coast of Canada, towing is an essential service for providing goods/services to the area. Winches are devices that wind cable around a drum that can be spooled in and out for the towing of barges, log booms and other vessels.

Bracewell Marine Group built one, got the word out there and, so far, it has been paying off. The customization requirements of the customers are not an issue as their base models can be modified to suit the customer demands. Currently, Bracewell Marine Group offers models in a 1”, 1.25” and 1.5” cable diameter. Its tow winch BMG 1.5” X 2247 drum holds 2,247 feet of 1.5-inch cable; has a 2,500-PSI operating pressure; and has a line speed of 186 feet per minute at 80 gallons full drum speed. Its outer 36

B.C. Tugboat 2021

layer line pull is 17,258 pounds. It is 103.5 inches long and 107 and 7/8 inches wide (with hand wheel and bollard), and is 71 inches high.

According to Greg Williams, shore engineer, Bracewell Marine Group’s most recent product is a 11/4 winch for a local customer. “We’ve done a number of one-inch and 11/2 inch, but this is our first 11/4,” Williams recalls, adding the winch is a single drum. “The customer requested 2,000 feet of the 11/4” wire, and this winch is capable of holding up to 2,250 feet,” Williams says.

Having designed the winches for simplified operation and straightforward maintenance, the goal was to produce a user-friendly product. Bracewell can customize the winches to accommodate the customer’s requirements. For example, the winch can be flush-mounted or in a well, the fairlead can be pipe or hoop style and can be modified to accommodate rollers. Also, the winches are available in a variety of colours that can be customized to customer colour schemes.

Additionally, in the boatyard, Bracewell Marine Group provides surface restoration for all vessel types including commercial boats, tugs, ships, fishing vessels, barges and pleasure vessels. The company constructs new vessels and also assists with boat maintenance and repair welding, government inspections, custom machining, rigging, fiberglassing, gel coat, painting, woodwork, electrical, mechanical, underwater services, restorations, bottom painting, waxing, polishing, shafting and bearing sales and all necessary specialty marine products and supplies. Ü

to all our valued customers, business partners and employees for being part of our rich history!

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I N DE X TO A DV ER T I SERS Albion Marine Solutions Ltd................................................................................32

Ledcor Group......................................................................................................................28

AMIX Group........................................................................................................................ IFC

Med Marine.........................................................................................................................27

Arrow Marine Services Ltd........................................................................................4

North Island College..................................................................................................24

Bernard LLP............................................................................................................................. 12

Ocean Group..................................................................................................................... 17

Bracewell Marine...................................................................................................... OBC Catherwood Towing Ltd..........................................................................................11 Discovery Harbour Fuel Sales............................................................................ 21 DMT Marine Equipment............................................................................................31 Don Kamura Marine Surveyor Ltd.................................................................14 Donaldson Ropes Ltd..................................................................................................13 EH Emery Electric..............................................................................................................18

Osborne Propellers.......................................................................................................32 Pacific Wire Rope Ltd...................................................................................................10 Parkland Fuel...................................................................................................................... IBC Redden Net & Rope Ltd...............................................................................................9 Robert Allan Ltd...........................................................................................................OFC Saam Towage....................................................................................................................35

Harken Towing....................................................................................................................13

Seaspan Shipyards.......................................................................................................23

Hodder Tugboat Co. Ltd.............................................................................................5

Vancouver Maritime Museum...........................................................................25

International Longshore & Warehouse Union.....................................7

Wainwright Marine........................................................................................................19

King Bros. Limited..............................................................................................................19

Western Maritime Institute.................................................................................... 15

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B.C. Tugboat 2021

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