KOTUG ASSISTS PIONEERING SPIRIT ON HER MAIDEN PROJECT

17-11-2016

KOTUG has assisted Allseas’ Pioneering Spirit during her first assignment, the removal of the Yme mobile offshore production unit in the North Sea, 100 km off the coast of Norway.

KOTUG was selected by Allseas to provide towage expertise and assistance for this special project. One of the most important tasks for KOTUG entailed the exact positioning of the Iron Lady, a cargo barge purpose-built by Allseas for the transfer of topsides and jackets, for offloading of the Yme topsides and the subsequent load-in to shore.

Prior to the removal operation, during the preparation phase KOTUG assisted with barge handling, both in port and nearshore, as well as offshore.

KOTUG also provided towing services for Allseas’ vessels and support barges in the Netherlands where the Pioneering Spirit was prepared, and in Norway, where the load-over of the topside from the barge to the dismantling yard took place.

 “It was an honour for KOTUG to participate in Pioneering Spirit’s maiden assignment”, Tow Master Bas van Hoorn said. “This project has provided us with an opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in coordinated Offshore Towage Services by taking care of every detail.

Moreover, it also proved the strength and manoeuvrability of the Rotortug, making it possible to fit the barge exactly into the tight slot with 100% control. We look forward to working with Allseas again in future projects.”