Posted on July 14, 2025
SAAM Towage has launched the Trapananda, claimed to be Latin America’s first electric tugboat, at the christening event held at the Empormontt Passenger Terminal in Puerto Chacabuco, Chile.
The ceremony was attended by local authorities, company executives, and representatives from the maritime community.
The vessel is notable for its “zero direct CO₂ emissions” and reduced underwater noise, benefiting marine ecosystems and aiding in the decarbonisation of port activities.
The tugboat will assist with ship berthing and deberthing operations in collaboration with Enap.
Enap chairwoman Gloria Maldonado said: “This new tugboat, the result of a fruitful partnership with SAAM, demonstrates that when the public and private sectors work together decisively, they can advance on complex challenges like decarbonisation.
“This step is a concrete sign that we can accelerate the energy transition through collaboration and action.”
Measuring 25m in length and 13m in beam, the Trapananda is equipped with two 2,100kW electric azimuth thrusters. It is powered by a 3,616kWh lithium-ion battery system.
Its batteries, which are remotely monitored from Norway by the manufacturer, have an expected lifespan of ten years.
With a bollard pull capacity of 70t, the vessel is capable of handling large vessels in challenging harbour conditions.
The vessel was designed by Robert Allan and constructed by the Sanmar shipyard in Turkey. It features a hull optimised for energy efficiency, reducing resistance, according to the company.
The Trapananda has undergone seaworthiness testing and will be operated by a local SAAM crew trained in Canada for precision manoeuvres.
The vessel joins SAAM’s two existing electric tugboats in Canada.
SAAM CEO Macario Valdes said: “The arrival of the Trapananda marks a before and after for our industry. We are moving decidedly toward cleaner, more efficient and environmentally friendly operations.
“This project is a vision for the future: we are developing solutions that not only tow and assist ships, but also mobilising a shift towards a truly sustainable logistics chain.”
In 2022, Sanmar Shipyards partnered with SAAM Towage and naval architect Robert Allan to build two electric harbour tugs.
“SAAM unveils Latin America’s first electric tugboat” was originally created and published by Ship Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.
