The Panama Canal operation continues its path towards greater efficiency. The Canal Authority announced the integration of two TRAktor 2600-Z tugboats, specifically designed for intensive maritime assistance operations, which are now an active part of its operational fleet.
The new strategy in maritime operations
During a ceremony held at the Amador Cruise Pier, the vessels “Isla Popa” and “Isla Uva” were christened. Each unit has a length of 25.9 meters and a beam of 12.8 meters. Their design meets the most demanding maneuverability standards, which allows for better control during the entry and exit of vessels through the neopanamax locks and the passage through the Culebra Cut, one of the most challenging areas of the canal.
The entry of these tugboats is part of a charter contract signed with the Danish firm Svitzer, which specializes in tug services and has an operational presence in more than 140 ports and 40 terminals around the world.
According to Ricaurte Vásquez Morales, Panama Canal Administrator, these units are important to ensure the reliability of operations in the face of growing global maritime trade demand. Deputy Administrator Ilya Espino de Marotta and other executives also participated in the event, along with Svitzer’s general manager for the Americas, Arjen van Dijk.
The Panamanian interoceanic waterway, vital for world trade, continues to invest in support technology that guarantees agile, safe and sustainable transits. This fleet upgrade improves assistance to vessels, and increases the commitment of the port channel with a competitive and adaptable service to the new global logistics challenges.
Source and photo: Panama Canal