Argentinian towage and harbour company Remolcadores Unidos Argentinos (RUA) has just taken delivery of the ‘RUA Cap. Lucio R’, a Damen ASD 2810 tug. Although Damen’s tugs have operated in Argentina before, this vessel is the first time a Damen tug is owned by an Argentinian company.

Established in 1967 and based in Buenos Aires, RUA has a seven-strong fleet of vessels with a smaller bollard pull than the ASD 2810 newbuild. The new vessel has 58 t bollard pull and is a reflection of the growing economy in Argentina and the fact that vessels calling into the country’s ports are increasing in size.

Ezequiel Najmias, Damen Sales Manager Americas, comments: “We were competing with companies in the region and with China. We are delighted that RUA recognised our quality/price ratio and awarded Damen the contract. We have a great relationship with RUA and wanted to help them achieve their goals.”

Dr Carlos Ruiz Moreno, RUA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, says: “Our family-owned, second generation company has had 45 uninterrupted years in the towage market in every Argentine port and with Damen there is perfect synergy between a serious company that wants to sell its products and another serious company that needs speed, quality, flexibility and good pricing. The favourable circumstances of a growing economy mean that we are already thinking of a second unit, as we firmly believe that there will continue to be healthy growth.”

Tags: Damen Shipyards