Damen Shipyards Group Secures Contract for New Tugs with Fairplay Towage and Louis Meyer

Dutch shipbuilder Damen Shipyards Group has recently announced a new contract to construct tugs for Hamburg-based tugboat operator Fairplay Towage as part of its fleet renewal program. Additionally, Damen has signed a contract with Neue Schleppdampfschiffsreederei Louis Meyer, marking a significant milestone for the company.

Contract Details

The contract with Fairplay Towage includes the construction of three vessels – one RSD Tug 2513 and two ASD Tugs 2312. The first vessel is scheduled for delivery later this year, with the second RSD Tug 2513 expected to join Fairplay Towage’s fleet in early 2026. Furthermore, the ASD Tug 2312 will be delivered to Louis Meyer and enter into a long-term bareboat charter with Fairplay Towage.

This latest order brings the total number of newbuild vessels between Damen and Fairplay Towage to 15 over the past four years, highlighting the strong partnership between the two companies.

Advanced Features

According to Damen, the tugs are equipped with modular solutions to meet specific client requirements. Options chosen by Fairplay Towage and Louis Meyer include LNG firefighting (FiFi-1) and winterisation packages, as well as IMO Tier III compliance with the Damen Marine NOx Reduction System.

Upon completion of construction at Damen’s yards in China and Vietnam, the vessels will be delivered to the Port of Rotterdam via heavy lift shipment, showcasing Damen’s commitment to efficient and reliable delivery methods.

Client Testimonials

Philip Harmstorf, Managing Director of Fairplay Towage Group, expressed his satisfaction with the new order, emphasizing the strategic importance of fleet modernisation and sustainability. He praised Damen’s innovative solutions and aftersales support, highlighting the company’s dedication to excellence.

Damen Sales Manager for Germany, Joschka Böddeling, echoed these sentiments, thanking both Fairplay and Louis Meyer for their trust in Damen’s expertise. He emphasized the mutual benefits of the ongoing collaboration between the companies.

Expansion into Local Markets

In addition to the contracts with Fairplay Towage and Louis Meyer, Damen recently signed a deal with Turkish conglomerate İÇDAŞ for the local construction of an azimuthing stern drive (ASD) tug. This partnership will enable İÇDAŞ to build the vessel at its own shipyard in Çanakkale, further expanding Damen’s presence in the Turkish market.

Overall, Damen Shipyards Group continues to strengthen its position as a leading shipbuilder, delivering innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients worldwide.