Wilson Sons initiates the operation of the high-power and sustainable technology tugboat, WS Castor, at the Port of Santos.
This new vessel is part of a series of six tugboats built by the company at its shipyards in Guarujá, Brazil. The WS Castor will be crucial in ensuring the safety of maneuvering and docking large ships scheduled to operate in the Santos port complex, the largest in Latin America.
These tugboats are the first in Brazil to meet the IMO TIER III standard set by the International Maritime Organization, ensuring a significant reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions.
Additionally, the vessel’s hull design, developed by Damen Shipyards (RSD 2513), contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, with an estimated 14% reduction in fossil fuel consumption compared to similar tugboats.
With advanced features, including twin keels to improve navigability and increase drag capacity during maneuvers, these tugboats are highly efficient, consuming less fuel and emitting fewer pollutants. They have an impressive traction of over 90 tons and are currently the most powerful tugboats in operation in Brazil. Moreover, their versatility allows operations both in port maneuvers and ocean towing.
“The introduction of WS Castor, with its cutting-edge technology, further strengthens our fleet of over 80 vessels, which play a crucial role in more than 40% of ship maneuvers in Brazilian ports. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to safe, sustainable, and efficient international trade,” emphasized Rodrigo Bastos, Director of Operations of Wilson Sons’ Tugboat Division.
Apart from the Port of Santos, other tugboats from this series, such as WS Centaurus and WS Orion, are operating in busy ports, providing support to large vessels used for exports.
With an impressive track record of more than 1,500 maneuvers since their deployment, these vessels play a vital role in supporting the maritime industry, ensuring the safety and efficiency of port operations throughout Brazil.
