In line with its strategy to strengthen operational efficiency and maintain a safe, reliable, and competitive service, the Panama Canal has added two new tugboats to its fleet.
The Isla Carenero and Isla Parida are 27 metres long and 12 metres in beam and will assist ships during lock entry and exit manoeuvres, as well as during their passage through the Culebra Cut, one of the most demanding sections of the waterway.
They are also essential for ensuring safe and efficient transits through the Neopanamax locks, where maximum manoeuvrability and precision are required.
The newly incorporated vessels are Z-Tech 6000 models, which are internationally recognised for their energy efficiency, high operational performance, and responsiveness, according to a spokesman.
“This design, adopted by major ports worldwide, has proven ideal for intensive support operations like those performed at the Panama Canal. The waterway first introduced Z-Tech tugboats in 2007 as part of its fleet modernisation plan.
“They form part of a charter agreement with the CPT-PSAM consortium, which enables the canal to expand its operational capacity without compromising financial efficiency or fleet management flexibility.”
