Jaap-Jan – KOTUG Canada

CHIEF and Watchkeeping Mates- Escort Tug

KOTUG Canada is accepting applications for Chief and Watchkeeping Mates to join our dynamic team.

Duties and Accountabilities
As designated Navigation and Safety Officers of the vessel, the watchkeeping mates play a critical role in maintaining a safe and efficient navigational watch, ensuring compliance with international and local regulations, company policies, and the Master’s Standing Orders. The role involves a wide range of duties, including the upkeep of navigation equipment, maintaining safety equipment, overseeing hazard control measures, and ensuring accurate record-keeping. Duties include but are not limited to the following.

Maintain a safe and efficient navigational watch in accordance with international and local regulations, Master’s Standing Orders, and company policies & procedures
Maintain deck and radio logbooks
Set watches, delegate work assignments, train and supervise junior officers and deck ratings and ensure assigned jobs are completed successfully
Actively monitor crew morale and welfare, acting as a liaison between crew and senior management
Ensure that all navigation equipment is in good condition and function-tested periodically and records are maintained (radars, echo sounders, compasses, sextant, weather fax, GMDSS, lights, flags, binnacles, etc.)
Where ECDIS is absent, maintain a current chart folio for the vessel’s trading area, with all charts and nautical publications up-to-date and a correction log in place
Ensure that all Deck Department manuals/publications and records are properly indexed, identifiable and easily retrievable in accordance with established procedures
Inspect and maintain all safety equipment, (Life vests, Survival Suits, GMDSS Radios, EPIRB’s, SARTS, Life Rafts, Rescue Boats, Fast Rescue Boats, Line-throwing appliances, Rocket/Parachute Flares, Smoke Floats, Fireman’s Outfits, EEBD’s, Fire Extinguishers, Fixed Firefighting Systems, etc.) and keep record of inspection/maintenance
Act as ship’s designated Safety Officer onboard
Verify that the ship’s Firefighting and Lifesaving Appliance Plans are posted in proper areas and consistently maintained
Record safety meeting minutes and submit meeting reports to the Master
Prepare Emergency Drill Reports
Verify and maintain first aid equipment inventory and, where applicable, medical supplies, ship’s hospital and all designated standby rescue and recovery equipment
Implement Hazardous Material Control program onboard, ensuring that any hazardous materials are properly segregated and stored, current inventories are maintained, and updated Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available
Participate in incident investigations and implement corrective actions
Review IMS and report deficiencies to shore-based management
Encourage the use of the Company IMS to ensure vigilance and continual feedback of the company’s systems and procedures
Prepare and submit management and performance reports, including KPI’s and Daily Reports, as directed by the Master
Contribute to KOTUG Canada’s safety culture by understanding and complying with various safety processes within the Safety Management System
Performs all additional duties as assigned

Certification Requirements:

Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency as issued by Transport Canada
STCW Basic Safety
STCW Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats
STCW Proficiency in Fast Rescue Craft (preferred)
STCW Vessel Personnel with Security Duties
GMDSS/GOC
ECDIS IMO 1.27
WHMIS
Marine basic first aid and CPR
Valid Transport Canada Seafarer Medical

Experience & Qualifications:

Minimum 1-year previous experience in position
2 years previous experience onboard ASD escort/harbour tugs with 60+ ton bollard pull or vessel of similar size (Chief Mate)
2 years previous experience in escort towing (Chief Mate)
PPA voyage requirements for Area 2 General and Area 3 (Chief Mate)
Must have strong communication and team skills
Must display strong safety orientation, compliance and decision-making skills
Strong concentration and attention to detail is required

What we offer
At KOTUG Canada, we offer an opportunity to be part of an innovative forward-thinking company with a strong commitment to safety and sustainability. Here you’ll have the opportunity to shape the future while working in a dynamic, collaborative environment and with cutting-edge technology.

Apply today! A copy of your cover letter and CV can be forwarded to resumes@kotugcanada.ca

Deck Ratings- Escort Tug

KOTUG Canada is accepting applications for Deck Ratings to join our dynamic team.

Duties and Accountabilities
The Deck Rating carries out a variety of tasks on deck and forming part of the Navigational Watch, as and when required. The Deck Rating’s duties include but are not limited to the following.

Conduct watchkeeping responsibilities, as requested by the Officer of the Watch, including look-out and steering duties
Perform fire and security rounds and maintain gangway watch while in port, as instructed by the Officer of the Watch
Complete general maintenance and hygiene duties at the deck department level including grinding, chipping, painting, welding, cleaning, planned maintenance work and tank inspections
Perform mooring, unmooring, and line handling duties
Splice and repair ropes, wire cables and other cordage
Load, discharge, and secures ship’s cargo and stores as required; Attach and detach fuel and water hoses
Support personnel transfers, ensuring PFDs and safety harnesses are in place
Support escort and towing operations as applicable
Participate in onboard safety drills and conduct muster duties during emergency situations and as required
Verify that fire-fighting equipment is always kept clear of obstructions and ready for use
Contribute to KOTUG Canada’s safety culture by understanding and complying with various safety processes within the Safety Management System
Performs all additional duties as assigned

Certification Requirements:

Bridge Watch Rating Certificate of Competency as issued by Transport Canada
STCW Basic Safety
STCW Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats
STCW Proficiency in Fast Rescue Craft (preferred)
STCW Vessel Personnel with Security Duties
Transportation of Dangerous Goods
Rigging, Slinging (preferred)
Confined space entry and rescue training
Fall Protection and rescue training
WHMIS
Marine basic first aid and CPR
Valid Transport Canada Seafarer Medical

Experience & Qualifications:

Previous experience working as a deck rating is preferred
Previous experience working on tugs is considered an asset
Thorough understanding of precautions and procedures related to the company safety management system is required
Understanding of pollution regulations and environmental protection procedures is required
Must have strong communication and team skills
Must display strong safety orientation, compliance and decision-making skills
Strong concentration and attention to detail is required

Apply today! A copy of your cover letter and CV can be forwarded to resumes@kotugcanada.ca

HR Crewing Coordinator, Victoria, BC

We are looking for an HR Crewing Coordinator to join our team!
KOTUG Canada is currently seeking a HR Crewing Coordinator to join our dynamic team in Victoria, BC. This role is critical to our operations as it is responsible for ensuring that crew scheduling aligns with operational demands while upholding crew compliance with safety regulations and competency standards to meet our company and client requirements.

Duties and Accountabilities
The HR Crewing Coordinator will primarily be responsible for coordinating deployment of marine crew to KOTUG Canada’s vessel operations. Main responsibilities include full-cycle recruitment, onboarding new employees, crewing, coordination of training and compliance for seagoing employees, HRIS data management and logistical support. The responsibilities of this role include but are not limited the following:

Work collaboratively with Human Resources and Operations teams to manage marine crewing for KOTUG Canada vessels supporting the recruitment and selection process. This includes resolving any unexpected crew shortages to ensure timely relief for effected crew positions on the vessel.
- Creating posting and managing applicants including the resume inbox
- Pre-screening candidates and coordinating interviews
- Completing references and background checks
- Coordination of onboarding and offboarding process
Administer all aspects of the Human Resource Information System (HRIS), acting as a lead user to ensure all records and entries are accurate and up to date in the system regarding employee’s personal details, contact information, next of kin data, employment information, training and certification, and current rotation/scheduling for timekeeping purposes.
Liaise with payroll as required regarding timesheets, employee benefits, pension, salary changes and new hired employees.
Conduct vessel visits in person on a regular basis to meet with and interact with crew.
Manage employee relations, handling employee complaints, incidents, and conflict resolution, escalating to senior management where necessary.
Assist with the management of all employee leaves, including but not limited to short- and long-term disability, maternity/parental, leaves of absence and employment accommodation plans as required.
Create internal communications and respond to employee inquiries in a timely manner.
Monitor, track and ensure employees are trained in compliance with all relevant regulations, including IMO, Transport Canada, Marine Personnel & STCW regulations along with IMCA guidelines, Nautical Institute publications and any other marine regulatory bodies, ensuring that crew certifications and training remain valid and compliant.
Assist in management of the cadet and indigenous training programs for KOTUG Canada. This includes providing introductions and presentations to current and prospective students enrolled in marine programs at local colleges, universities and/or local communities.
Responsible for communication of and the coordination and logistics of crew movements are managed on time and within budget and provide comprehensive advice to Senior Management on crewing operations.
Coordinate travel and logistics of crew mobilizing for work and training; including oversight of visa applications (as required) and coordination of other travel documents as applicable.
Preparation of monthly reports for HR and Operations including KPI, training compliance, employment equity, turnover, etc.
Act as a brand ambassador for KOTUG Canada and represent the company by attending and participating in industry events, conferences, and career fairs to promote career opportunities and company values. This includes the organization of company and community events.

Who are we looking for
We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented HR Crewing Coordinator who thrives in a fast paced environment. The ideal candidate must be able to effectively communicate with employees, management, clients, and all stakeholders, etc. We are looking for someone that is passionate about people, process-driven, and aligns with our values of safety, integrity, and operational excellence.

Experience & Qualifications

5+ years of experience in the marine or offshore industry is preferred. An equivalent combination of certification, training and experience will be considered.
Post secondary education or training with a focus in business, administration and/or Human Resource Management is required.
Minimum 5 years’ experience working in a fast-paced administrative capacity is preferred.
Previous experience working offshore in a seafaring capacity would be considered an asset.
CPHR would be considered an asset and is preferred.
Excellent computer proficiency with MS Office: Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Previous experience completing data entry within HR/ Crew Management software is required.
Knowledge of employment legislation, including the Canada Labour Code

Key Competencies

Must be willing and able to promote diversity and inclusion practices while understanding and managing the dynamics of a diverse workforce.
Must display excellent people management, negotiation, time management and organizational skills and can prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a busy, fast paced environment
Must display strong personal ethics and integrity and always maintain confidentiality.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required with the ability to handle stressful situations in a tactful and confidential manner.
Demonstrated experience working independently with solid judgement, initiative, problem solving and critical thinking skills.
Comfortable creating and delivering presentations to groups on company services and employment opportunities.
Must be accountable, dependable, pro-active and work well in a team environment.
Fluent English written and verbal communication skills

What we offer
KOTUG Canada offers an opportunity to be part of an innovative forward-thinking marine organization. Your key role will ensure that our offshore vessels are staffed effectively and efficiently, contributing directly to the success of our dynamic and growing operations.

Join a dynamic team where your efforts directly impact the success of our business and the satisfaction of our crew and customers while taking your career to new heights.

Apply today! A copy of your cover letter and CV can be forwarded to resumes@kotugcanada.ca quoting “HR Crewing Coordinator” in the subject line.

We thank all applicants for their interest but only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

KOTUG Canada partners with Robert Allan Ltd. and Sanmar to build two powerful, high bollard pull Methanol Fuelled Escort Tugs

After a rigorous and competitive process KOTUG Canada (“KOTUG”) has selected Türkiye’s Sanmar Shipyards to build two RAsalvor 4400-DFM dual fuel methanol escort tugs – Robert Allan Ltd. design – to service the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMEP).

These tugs will escort tankers from the harbour limits of the Port of Vancouver to the open Pacific Ocean through the commercial shipping lanes of the Salish Sea. To provide this service, KOTUG Canada has partnered with Sc’ianew First Nation from Beecher Bay, which is strategically located along the shipping route.

These two innovative tugs, to be named SD AISEMAHT and SD QWII-AAN'C SARAH in honour of the Sc’ianew First Nation, are scheduled to be the world’s first large purpose-built high bollard pull methanol fuelled tugs when they enter service in 2025 and will provide significant environmental benefits to further reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and underwater radiated noise.

The relationship between Vancouver, BC based Robert Allan Ltd. and KOTUG dates back many years with KOTUG operating over a dozen Robert Allan Ltd. designed high bollard pull harbour and offshore ASD and Advanced RotorTug (ART) vessels internationally. Similarly, for almost thirty years, Sanmar Shipyards has been building industry leading high-quality tugs for Robert Allan Ltd. designs, including battery electric, LNG fuelled and tugs for the BC market.

“We are pleased to work again with Robert Allan Ltd. and look forward to our long-awaited cooperation with Sanmar, which is one of the leading tugboat builders in the world. I am proud that we continue our active green policy to provide sustainable towage services by building and operating two powerful high bollard pull methanol fuelled escort tugs” said Ard-Jan Kooren, President & CEO of KOTUG International and Executive Director of KOTUG Canada”.

“I am honoured to ink the contract of these unique first methanol fuelled new-build tugboats in the world. We have been building over the years the new generation of cleaner and greener tugboats to meet the environmental targets in the maritime industry, this is another very important milestone” said Ali Gurun, Chairman of Sanmar Shipyards.

“The RAsalvor 4400-DFM has been customized to meet the demanding operational and environmental requirements for this project. As a company based in Vancouver where these vessels will be operating, we are keenly aware of the crucial role these escort tugs will play going forward. We are gratified that KOTUG Canada has chosen to utilize these world leading tugs for such an important project in our own backyard.” said Michael Fitzpatrick, President & CEO of Robert Allan Ltd.

Tugboat details

The RAsalvor 4400-DFM escort tugs will measure 44 metres in length and are an evolution of Robert Allan Ltd.’s acclaimed escort tugs which operate in some of the harshest environments in the world. With over 115 tonnes of bollard pull they’ll be Canada’s most powerful escort tugs.

Both vessels will be equipped with a mechanical cross link system between the azimuth thrusters to enable a single engine to drive both propellers. They will also be equipped with main engine driven shaft generators to satisfy the vessel’s normal electrical needs. These features will allow the crews to optimize engine loading and significantly reduce fuel consumption and running hours of the main engines and gensets. Combined, these features will reduce the tugs underwater radiated noise, mitigating the effects of shipping on the Salish Sea’s Southern Resident Killer Whales. Additionally, KOTUG is having the hulls of both tugs coated with a graphene paint to reduce biofouling and enhance hull-smoothness which reduces underwater radiated noise and makes the vessels more fuel efficient. The escort tugs are equipped with firefighting equipment meeting the requirements of American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)’s FFV 1 notation and will have the largest spill response capabilities of any tugs on the BC coast to mitigate the risk of marine spills to the Salish Sea and communities from laden tankers as well as other commercial marine traffic.

High quality onboard equipment will include heavy duty electric winches fit fore and aft for reduced noise and to significantly reduce the risk of a hydraulic oil spill into the environment. The forward escort system has been customized to suit the requirements of the local pilots for tankers utilizing the TMEP. The aft towing system with a dual drum winch with 2 x 1,000 m of steel wire is among the largest fit to an escort tug and combined with the vessel’s exceptional manoeuvrability provides the

capability to perform emergency towage of vessels along the route that may find themselves in distress.

Inside, the accommodation will include spacious dedicated cabins and ensuites for all regular crew, all with natural light, and well in excess of regulatory standards. To facilitate training and additional response capability, extra berths will be provided for use by Western Canada Marine Response Corporation (WCMRC) spill response technicians. Particular attention has been paid to minimize noise and vibration aboard the vessels, with a crew comfort (habitability) class notation to be assigned by ABS along with ENVIRO and SUSTAIN notations demonstrating the projects reduced environmental impact.

We encourage readers to stay tuned to our social media accounts for regular updates as these inspiring vessels come to life at Sanmar’s world class facilities.

Picture:

Sitting left to right: Ard-Jan Kooren, President & CEO Kotug Int and Executive Director of KOTUG Canada | standing on the left: Osman Munir VP & CCO Kotug Int – Executive Director Kotug Canada, sitting on the right: Ali Gürün – Chairman of Sanmar Shipyards and standing on the right Ipek Gürün – Sanmar Shipyards.

KOTUG Canada Provides First State-of-the-Art Dual Fuel Methanol Escort Tugs

In 2021, after a rigorous and competitive process, Trans Mountain, on behalf of shippers for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMEP), awarded KOTUG Canada Inc. a long-term contract to provide enhanced escort towage services for tankers that load crude oil at Trans Mountain’s Westridge Marine Terminal.

Trans Mountain operates Canada’s only oil pipeline servicing the West Coast of Canada providing tidewater access to foreign markets for Canada’s petroleum resources.

Under the agreement, KOTUG Canada, which is a partnership between KOTUG International B.V. and Canada’s Horizon Maritime Services Ltd., will escort tankers from the harbour limits of the Port of Vancouver to the Pacific Ocean, through the commercial shipping lanes of the Salish Sea. To provide this service, KOTUG Canada has partnered with Sc’ianew First Nation from Beecher Bay, strategically located along the shipping route.

KOTUG Canada shall provide the service using two revolutionary new build dual fuel, methanol and diesel, escort tugs, which have been specially designed by Robert Allan Ltd., a world-renowned naval architect firm based in Vancouver, BC. These are the first vessels of this kind for Canada’s West Coast. The Escort Tugs are being purpose built by SANMAR Shipyards in Turkey. The design for these tugs provides significant environmental benefits to further reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and underwater noise. The escort tugs are equipped with fire fighting and spill response capabilities and will help to mitigate the risk of marine spills to the Salish Sea and communities from laden tankers as well as other commercial marine traffic.

The new build vessels will replace the existing tugs selected for TMEP announced by KOTUG Canada with the Sc’ianew First Nation in December 2021. Together, with a third existing KOTUG Canada vessel on long term contract to Western Canada Marine Response Corporation (WCMRC), the vessels will operate out of the Cheanuh Marina in Beecher Bay on the south coast of Vancouver Island, owned and operated by the Sc’ianew First Nation. Together, the three KOTUG Canada vessels will improve the overall safety of the marine network in the region. KOTUG Canada’s crews are highly skilled and capable Canadian mariners and, as part of the partnership between KOTUG Canada and the Sc’ianew First Nation, there will be career and training opportunities for members of the Sc’ianew First Nation including emergency response and mariner positions.

“We are pleased to move forward with Sc’ianew First Nation and implement this new build green solution to the Trans Mountain Expansion Project enhanced tug escort program,” said Steve Widmeyer, Director, KOTUG Canada. “These tugs exhibit the aspirations of the BC tug market to improve environmental performance of shipping activity and advance new solutions to local and global environmental challenges.”

Innovations for the new build tugs include a revolutionary hybrid propulsion configuration enabling the escort tugs to operate using both methanol and diesel as marine fuels. Both vessels will be equipped with a mechanical cross link system (the latest SCHOTTEL SYDRIVE azimuth thrusters) to enable a single engine to drive two thrusters, significantly reducing fuel consumption. Additionally, the hulls of the two tugs will have a graphene paint applied (from Graphite Innovation Technologies, GIT) to reduce biofouling and enhance hull-smoothness of the vessels which reduces underwater radiant noise and makes the vessels more fuel efficient.

These highly sophisticated dual fuel methanol escort tugs are consistent with KOTUG’s innovative approach; dating back to 1999 with the first ever constructed RotorTug, the first converted battery hybrid tugboat in 2012, two newbuilding battery hybrid tugs in 2015 and the recently launched world’s first fully electric pusher vessel.

“Sc’ianew First Nation worked hard to bring the resources to our community to protect the ocean and our natural resources,” said Chief Russell Chipps. “At the same time, we are creating economic development and environmental protection opportunities within our own community and the addition of these new dual fuel tugs builds our capacity to participate in greener solutions for marine shipping.”

“The Trans Mountain Expansion Project includes significant measures to protect the marine environment,” said Michael Davies, Chief Operating Officer of Trans Mountain. “The enhanced escort system reduces the risk of a spill from tankers moving through our local waters despite the overall increase in the number of ships. KOTUG brought a green solution to meeting this challenge in partnership with Sc'ianew First Nation. This will create more jobs for the BC south coast and extend Project benefits to coastal communities.”

KOTUG CANADA AND SC’IANEW FIRST NATION SIGN MBA

KOTUG Canada Inc. ("KOTUG"), and Sc'ianew First Nation have signed a Mutual Benefits Agreement ("MBA"), outlining details of the unique and meaningful partnership that supports KOTUG Canada's long-term agreement with Trans Mountain for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project ("TMEP"). The agreement encompasses the provision and operation of a Spill Response Vessel and two Escort Tugs to support the TMEP in close coordination with the Sc'ianew.

Training & Career Development of Community Members

The MBA shows KOTUG Canada's commitment to respecting Sc'ianew culture, traditions, and historical connection within the Nation's territorial waters. The agreement includes the related training and development of Sc'ianew community members to ensure they gain the necessary experience and knowledge in the field of advanced safe tug operations and marine response. Importantly, the partnership between KOTUG Canada and the Sc'ianew First Nation provides vessel crews opportunities to learn from traditional knowledge and operate with respect and appreciation of the unique natural habitat of British Columbia's coastal environment.

In preparation for the upcoming TMEP, KOTUG Canada has worked closely with the Beecher Bay community to create new career opportunities and train Sc'ianew marine cadets on KOTUG Canada and parent company vessels. This provides Indigenous cadets with mandatory experience and knowledge in advanced safe tug operations and marine response. The cadets trained on the Horizon Arctic and the oil-spill-response-vessel (OSRV) in the North Sea and will return home to BC and join the crew of the K.J. Gardner, a 187 tonnes bollard pull anchor-handling tug supply (AHTS) vessel, suitably equipped for enhanced spill response duties as well as emergency towage and support duties.

Floating docking facility at Sc'ianew territory

Another important element that the Mutual Benefits Agreement (MBA)outlines is installing and operating a new floating docking facility in Cheanuh Marina in Beecher Bay, British Columbia. This floating docking facility consists of an existing barge that will be refitted and transformed to act as a breakwater and a berthing facility for KOTUG Canada's OSRV and two (2) dedicated Escort Tugs.

Signing the MBA represents a major milestone in KOTUG Canada's partnership with the Sc'ianew First Nation, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, strategically located along the Trans Mountain Shipping lanes. Using Beecher Bay as KOTUG Canada's home base for its operations allows for fast response times in case of emergencies. Additionally, the barge supports further enhancement of the Cheanuh Marina commercial activities in Beecher Bay within Sc'ianew Territory.

To protect the environment and delicate marine life in our oceans, all KOTUG Canada vessels will be coated with a revolutionary non-toxic vessel hull coating developed in Canada by Graphite Innovation & Technologies that reduces underwater radiated noise. Further, KOTUG Canada has strict policies in place to reduce any impact on the environment.

This partnership creates career and development opportunities for Indigenous Peoples that extend beyond Canada's borders and across the world's oceans.

Call to Action #92 from Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission called upon the corporate sector to:

• Commit to meaningful consultation, building respectful relationships, and obtaining the free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous peoples before proceeding with economic development projects.

• Ensure Aboriginal peoples have equitable access to jobs, training, and education opportunities in the corporate sector and that Aboriginal communities gain long-term sustainable benefits from economic development projects.

• Provide education for management and staff on the history of Aboriginal peoples, including the history and legacy of residential schools, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Treaties and Aboriginal rights, Indigenous law, and Aboriginal-Crown relations.

"At KOTUG Canada, we know that reconciliation is an ongoing process and that our work is to continue to learn and implement new ways of thinking and doing business as we go forward," said Steve Widmeyer, Director of KOTUG Canada. "This partnership advances local career opportunities for Indigenous seafarers. Most importantly, it will give our crews a unique opportunity to learn traditional knowledge and operate with respect and appreciation for the natural habitat of British Columbia's coastal environment. We value the Sc'ianew First Nation's important role as Ocean Protection Advocates."

Chief Russ Chipps, Sc'ianew (Beecher Bay): "We are very proud to take this next step in strengthening our partnership with KOTUG Canada. The MBA allows Sc'ianew First Nation to meet a broad range of objectives in relation to the changing reality of the west coast marine economy. Furthermore, it allows our Nation to fully participate in the growing economy within our traditional waters. It fits our vision to be a community whose Chief and Council provide economic opportunities through residential and commercial development, training and careers, while protecting the people's lands, resources, language, and cultural knowledge. Finally, it will contribute to our mental well-being and health."

Sharon Jay (Director) Board Chair of the MMLP (M’i nuw’ilum Marina Ltd. Partnership): "The MBA aligns with Canada’s goals for Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. The agreement is consistent with the principles articulated in the UN Declaration on Indigenous Rights, and together, our strong commitment to First Nations, social responsibility and sustainability will successfully support the TMEP's environment-focused safety initiatives."

Picture:

Standing left to right: Steve Widmeyer, Director of KOTUG Canada | Sharon Jay (Director) Board Chair MMLP | Bernice Millette, Sc'ianew (Beecher Bay) | Laurens Korporaal, Kotug Canada

Sitting: Chief Russ Chipps. Sc'ianew (Beecher Bay)

KOTUG Canada and GIT work together to help reduce underwater radiated noise in oceans

KOTUG Canada Inc.*, strongly committed to reducing the impact of operations on the environment, has recently applied revolutionary non-toxic noise reduction coatings to the hull of one of their vessels, the K.J. Gardner.

KOTUG Canada has worked extensively with Graphite Innovation and Technologies (GIT), an industry leader focused on manufacturing graphene-based sustainable marine coatings to meet these goals. KOTUG Canada used GIT’s XGIT-URN coating to help reduce underwater radiated noise emitted from the ship’s hull and the vibrations that disturb marine life. Aquatic life, such as mammals and the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whale reside within the area of employment for KOTUG Canada’s vessels. These mammals rely on underwater noise to communicate, navigate, and find food.

The K.J. Gardner is the first of three vessels using the GIT applications in support of KOTUG Canada’s mission to reduce the environmental impact, specifically related to the reduction of noise that potentially disturbs aquatic life in the Salish Sea and adjacent waters. Steve Widmeyer (Director with KOTUG Canada) reports, “This is a major step forward to strengthen our focus to be a sustainable company. We have set a high standard to meet these goals by using GIT’s XGIT-URN coating which significantly impacts meeting those targets.”

Further applied to the K.J. Gardner were GIT’s XGIT-FUEL and XGIT-PROP coatings. These coatings will enhance the reduced impact with the additional benefits of considerably improving fuel efficiency and decarbonization. It is expected that over the next five years, this vessel will significantly reduce CO2 emissions.

Mo AlGermozi (Chief Executive Officer at GIT) stated, “Our team is excited to work with KOTUG Canada in meeting their sustainability goals. Our XGIT-URN, along with our other two marine coatings, will support their desire to maintain healthy and vibrant oceans while still supporting the needs of their clients. Our shared goal of reducing the environmental impact on the world’s oceans is of paramount importance. GIT is on a mission to contribute to the movement of green shipping activities in the world’s oceans.”

KOTUG Canada awarded contract for delivery and operation of three vessels for Trans Mountain Expansion Project

KOTUG Canada Inc., a partnership between KOTUG International B.V. and Canada’s Horizon Maritime Inc., has been awarded a long-term agreement with Trans Mountain, operator of Canada’s only oil pipeline servicing the west coast of Canada providing tidewater access to foreign markets for Canada’s petroleum resources. KOTUG Canada will provide escort towage to tankers loaded at Westridge Marine Terminal, and was selected for this purpose by shippers on the Trans Mountain Pipeline after a rigorous and competitive process, facilitated by Trans Mountain. Besides the strong technical specifications of these modern vessels, decisive factors for the award included KOTUG Canada’s commitment to a strong and innovative approach to Indigenous involvement and the partnership’s strong foundation in operational excellence in Canada and around the world.

This agreement has been established in partnership with the Sc’ianew First Nation, located in Beecher Bay, on Vancouver Island. This strategic location along the Trans Mountain escort route will provide KOTUG Canada with a safe home for a dedicated berthing facility as well as supporting the commercial activities of the Sc’ianew First Nation in Beecher Bay. The escort tug names will commemorate two important people from the Sc’ianew community.

The agreement provides the Expansion Project, and all other marine movements, with necessary resources in support of Trans Mountain’s stringent commitment to marine safety and will further enhance the overall safety of vessel transits along the commercial shipping route between Westridge Marine Terminal in Burrard Inlet and the open ocean.

KOTUG Canada will provide and operate the two dedicated escort tugs, each approximately 50 metres long, with minimum bollard pull capacity of 110 T BP, which will be flagged in Canada and operated by highly skilled and capable Canadian mariners.

Provision of new technologies will assist to reduce underwater radiated noise and greenhouse gases. This includes the application of a revolutionary vessel hull coating developed in Canada by Graphite Innovation & Technologies. The vessels’ propulsion systems will use the latest engine drive technology.

KOTUG Canada will operate in close coordination with the Sc’ianew First Nation. The agreement also includes related training and development of community members of Indigenous communities to maintain the necessary experience and knowledge in the field of advanced safe tug operations and marine response. Importantly, the partnership between KOTUG Canada and the Sc’ianew First Nation provides vessel crews opportunities to learn from traditional knowledge and operate with respect and appreciation of the unique natural habitat of British Columbia’s coastal environment.

Chief Russ Chipps, Sc’ianew (Beecher Bay): “We have gone through great lengths, controversy and criticism to protect the ocean. This is just one part of our commitment to our people to do so. We want to be the centre for research, development and ocean protection, all while being the ambulance of the sea.”

Ard-Jan Kooren, President and CEO, KOTUG International; Board Member and Director, KOTUG Canada: “We are proud to be selected as the exclusive provider of escort tug support to Trans Mountain tankers. It is an acknowledgement of the strong heritage, knowledge, and innovative culture of the combined companies of KOTUG Canada, which both have impressive track records. Our strong commitment to First Nations, social responsibility, and sustainability will successfully support Trans Mountain’s environment-focused safety initiatives.”

Also, under a separate transaction, KOTUG Canada has an agreement with Western Canada Marine Response Corporation (WCMRC) for the provision and operation of one dedicated offshore supply vessel (OSV), to support the protection of the Salish Sea/Haro Strait and Juan de Fuca Strait. The dedicated OSV is suitably equipped for 24/7 oil spill response services. This highly capable vessel possesses significant bollard pull capacity of 207 T BP and is also capable of vessel towing, if required to do so.

Together, these three KOTUG Canada operated vessels, based out of Beecher Bay, will help to further improve the safety of the marine network in the region.

Ian Anderson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Trans Mountain Corporation: “Today represents a significant milestone in meeting our marine shipping commitments as a result of innovative partnerships between marine industry and Indigenous communities. With KOTUG Canada’s operations based out of Beecher Bay First Nation on southern Vancouver Island, these tugs will bring significant new tow capability to the region and will to raise the level of marine safety and emergency response, benefiting the shared waters of the Salish Sea. Chief Chipps and his community have shown great leadership in the protection of the marine environment, and this partnership will provide significant employment and commercial opportunities. I could not be happier for the Sc’ianew people. This is a great example of how shared values of protecting the marine environment, building capacity and growing local economies can work together.”

Early operations are expected to commence from late 2022. See the backgrounder for more information and the vessel specifications.

Sean Leet, President and CEO, Horizon Maritime; Board Member and Director, KOTUG Canada: “Being entrusted by Trans Mountain and WCMRC to provide these critical marine support services to keep our coastlines safe is an honour and a responsibility that we place the highest level of importance on. Partnering with the Sc’ianew First Nation to deliver these services has been a remarkable and rewarding experience – we look forward to achieving further success together as we build on the momentum we have created.”

Kevin Gardner, President, WCMRC: “The offshore supply vessel (OSV) is a substantial enhancement of oil spill response capacity on Canada’s West Coast. Offshore supply vessels have proven to be very effective oil spill response ships. At 245 feet and with 1,000 tonnes of oil storage capacity, it will be the largest ship in our fleet. The OSV will allow WCMRC to mount a large-scale response within six hours anywhere along the shipping lanes. WCMRC will be outfitting the OSV with 4,000 feet of offshore boom, a high-speed sweep system and a high-capacity skimming system.”

A commemorative ceremony was held in Beecher Bay, BC with representatives of Sc’ianew First Nation, Trans Mountain, WCMRC and KOTUG Canada (last picture)

Kotug Canada supports the mission to seafarers

KOTUG Canada is a loyal supporter of the Mission to Seafarers enabling them to provide good shore based facilities and on-ship support to all seafarers, especially during the challenges for crew affected by the COVID-19 situation around the globe. Be it slightly different than other years, KOTUG Canada and colleagues of KOTUG International joined the yearly Cycling for Seafarers event in Vancouver, to put their great cause in the spotlights and inspire others.

The goal of the Mission to Seafarers in Vancouver is the same it was when it all began in England in the 1830's; and that is to care for the spiritual, physical and emotional needs of all seafarers and their families. Already before the world was captured by the COVID19 pandemic, seafarers were isolated from their families and the rest of society spending many months at sea. Due to the current restrictions many seafarers are stuck for even longer on their vessels. It are these same seafarers who bring us 90% of what we have. Needless to say that supporting them has become more important than ever.

This year we are riding together apart between the offices in Canada and the Netherlands, however still as One KOTUG, One Team. Because seafarers are keyworkers. Because quitting is not an option, and not in our dictionary.

Join the Mission to Seafarers at: https://www.flyingangel.ca/

KOTUG Canada is an international partnership of Horizon Maritime & KOTUG International.

OSV Horizon Star provides full marine complement for offshore Supply and Support

Q2 – Q2020

Provision of the Offshore Support Vessel (OSV), the Horizon Star including full marine comlement for Offshore Supply and Support well exploration program. Provision of the Offshore Support Vessel, the Horizon Arctic as temporary support offshore Newfoundland & Labrador.

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