Boskalis has completed a carefully controlled towage operation for the jack-up rig Irish Sea Pioneer, using the ocean-going tug BOKA Summit to move the unit from its offshore location to Blyth in the United Kingdom.

Ocean-going tugs are known for high pulling power, with bollard pull ranging from 180 to more than 300 tonnes. This operation, however, required a gentler approach. BOKA Summit carried out the tow with a towing line tension of 40 tonnes.

The 55 m-high, four-legged Irish Sea Pioneer was towed to Blyth over a seven-day voyage. The reduced towing tension helped avoid excessive forces on the towing gear and prevented damage.

Boskalis said the rig arrived safely in Blyth and acknowledged the crew of BOKA Summit and its client Interocean Marine Services for the cooperation.