A landmark step in maritime sustainability unfolded today at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, as six advanced tugboats, including the trailblazing Volta 1—the first fully electric tugboat in Europe—officially arrived. This marks a significant chapter in the port’s ambitious push towards climate neutrality by 2050, underscoring its commitment to greener maritime operations.
Europe’s First Fully Electric Tugboat
The star of the fleet, Volta 1, stands out as a groundbreaking achievement. It’s not just a tugboat; it’s a symbol of what the future of maritime could look like. Equipped with a 70-ton bollard pull and powered by state-of-the-art batteries, the Volta 1 can recharge fully in just two hours using a high-capacity 1.5 MW charging station. This emissions-free marvel is part of the Reversed Stern Drive (RSD) class, celebrated for its dual-bow design that allows seamless maneuverability in complex towing situations.
Joining the Volta 1 are five new diesel-powered RSD tugboats, which, while not electric, feature cutting-edge energy efficiency and advanced exhaust treatment systems. These innovations collectively reduce emissions and optimize fuel usage, making them a vital addition to the port’s modernized fleet.
Built in Vietnam, Delivered to Belgium
The six tugboats were constructed by Damen Shipyards Group at their Song Cam facility in Vietnam, with production starting in 2023. Each vessel underwent rigorous port testing and sea trials before their long journey to Antwerp. In October, the fleet was carefully loaded onto the heavy-lift vessel Jumbo Kinetic for transport across 10,000 kilometers, making stops in Singapore and Las Palmas. Their arrival in Antwerp signals the beginning of extensive preparations, including crew training, technical commissioning, and final testing of the Volta 1 with newly installed charging infrastructure.
A Greener Fleet for a Sustainable Port
This delivery is part of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ strategic initiative to reduce emissions, particularly from its fleet, which contributes significantly to the port’s overall carbon footprint. The addition of the Volta 1 complements earlier projects like the Hydrotug, the first hydrogen-powered tugboat, and the Methatug, the first to use methanol as fuel. Together, these projects represent a coordinated effort to lead the way in sustainable shipping practices.
Rob Smeets, COO of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, described the arrival as a “significant step forward” in the port’s journey toward a climate-neutral fleet. He emphasized the Volta 1’s role as both an operational asset and an industry symbol of sustainable innovation.
Setting the Standard for the Maritime Industry
This milestone has garnered praise from industry leaders, with Vincent Maes of Damen Shipyards highlighting the port’s role as a pioneer in sustainable maritime practices. According to Maes, Antwerp’s efforts are likely to serve as a blueprint for other ports striving for similar transformations.
As these vessels prepare for full integration, they reinforce Antwerp’s reputation as a leader in both maritime logistics and environmental stewardship—a dual role that cements its standing as the economic engine of Flanders.
