Crowley Maritime has christened its first all-electric ship assist harbour tugboat, eWolf.
HLPFI reported in July 2021 that Crowley Maritime planned to build and operate an all-electric harbour tugboat to serve the port of San Diego, USA. It measures 82 ft (25 m) and has 70 tons (63.5 tonnes) of bollard pull. Master Boat Builders in Coden, Alabama, built the tug in cooperation with Crowley Engineering Services and Jensen Maritime. The tug will enter commercial service this week.
Tom Crowley, chairman and ceo, said: “The all-electric tugboat is the most technologically advanced vessel of its kind, and eWolf will help our customers and communities reach their decarbonisation goals while delivering capabilities that strengthen our vital supply chain.”
The tug also features a fully integrated electrical package for battery energy storage by ABB with advanced technology for mariner safety. eWolf is supported by a new microgrid shoreside charging station that enables the tug to operate at full performance daily on electricity.
During the ceremony, Crowley welcomed Gustav Hein, director of the Mid-Pacific Gateway Region for the US. Maritime Administration; Frank Urtasun, port of San Diego chairman; Jack Shu, San Diego County Air Pollution Control District governing board chair; Diane Takvorian, member of the California Air Resources Board; and San Diego council president Tem Joe LaCava. Crowley vice chairwoman Christine Crowley served as the sponsor to give the blessing and conduct the christening on San Diego Bay.
