SAAM Towage has strengthened its fleet with the delivery of a new high-performance tug, SAAM Guanay, underscoring its focus on sustainable and efficient port operations.
The vessel was delivered in Turkey on 6 February 2026 and built by Sanmar Shipyards. It is the 13th tug constructed by the Turkish shipbuilder for SAAM Towage. The newbuild belongs to the Boğaçay Class and is based on the RAmparts 2400SX MKII design, developed to enhance manoeuvrability in ports with restricted operating space while maintaining high installed power.
According to SAAM Towage, the new tug integrates design efficiency and operational capability tailored to current towage requirements. Pablo Cáceres, Director of Sustainability and Development at the company, said SAAM Guanay brings together the power and layout needed for today’s port challenges, while incorporating environmentally friendly systems that significantly reduce NOx emissions. He noted that the vessel is designed to support customers with reliable, safe and sustainable towage services.
From the shipbuilder’s side, Sanmar Shipyards highlighted the long-standing cooperation between the two companies. Commercial Director Rüçhan Çıvgın stated that both organisations share common values and a vision for a sustainable maritime future, adding that the yard is proud to contribute to SAAM Towage’s fleet expansion with modern tug designs.
In line with company tradition, the tug has been named after a bird species. The name SAAM Guanay refers to a member of the cormorant family inhabiting the Pacific coastline.
The vessel complies with IMO Tier III environmental regulations through the installation of Caterpillar 3516E engines combined with a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system. It has a length of 24.4 m and a beam of 12 m, delivering a bollard pull of 80 tons. The wide-beam design enhances stability and safety during manoeuvres, while onboard automation systems optimise energy consumption throughout all phases of operation. The tug is also equipped with FiFi-1 firefighting capability.
