Svitzer, a leading global towage provider and part of Maersk, has entered into a 12 year contractual arrangement with Woodside Energy Limited (Woodside) for the provision of towage and pilot transfer services at Woodside’s LNG export operations in the Port of Dampier, commencing from the end of 2023.

Following an innovative open tender process, Svitzer will provide five modern 80-ton bollard pull tugboats to service the critical towage needs for the shipping of export LNG cargoes. Svitzer will also provide one new pilot transfer vessel for pilot transfer services to support Woodside and its joint venture operations.

This tender outcome will see Svitzer provide world-class services to Woodside that deliver value and efficiency, while significantly reducing emissions across fleet operations by deploying smart and innovative enhancements to the tugs’ designs and operating models.

Commenting on the contract award, Nicolaj Noes, Managing Director for Svitzer Australia said: “We are honoured to have been chosen as Woodside’s long-term provider of towage services for its flagship LNG operations in Western Australia.

“This important contract consolidates Svitzer’s leading position in providing towage services to LNG operations and expands our ability to provide safe and efficient towage and marine services to support our customers around the globe.

“Svitzer looks forward to collaborating with Woodside to further reduce emissions from its tug operations by incorporating the latest proven new technologies over the term of the contract.

“It is a key priority for Svitzer to contribute positively to the local communities where we operate. A key outcome of the tender will be the commissioning of a new pilot transfer vessel to be built in Western Australia (WA), and providing a tailored training and professional development package for a WA-based workforce. With a strong focus on emissions reduction, delivering value and efficiency, and supporting local industries, we look forward to working closely with Woodside and the team in Western Australia.”