Sanmar Celebrates Delivery of First Tug to Ultratug

A delivery ceremony in Altinova

Sanmar Shipyards has proudly celebrated the delivery of the RAmparts 2400SX-MKII design tug UT PATZCUARO to leading Americas operator Ultratug at a special ceremony held at its Altinova Shipyard on 6 October 2025, following the completion of closing in Tuzla earlier the same day. The delivery marks the first-ever tugboat built by Sanmar for Ultratug, representing both a milestone in their long-standing friendship and the beginning of a new chapter in their cooperation across the Americas.

The ceremony was attended by Cem Seven, Chairman, Ali Gürün, Vice Chairman & CEO, with members of Sanmar’s management and employees. From Ultratug, the delegation included Jan Vermeij, CEO of Ultranav, Rodrigo Valderas, Country Manager Ultratug Mexico, Cristian Franco, Fleet & Operational Manager Ultratug Colombia, Bonifacio Hernandez, Technical Superintendent Ultratug Mexico, and Jose Morales, Maintenance Engineer Ultratug Colombia.

Nearly 25 years of friendship

In his address, Ali Gürün, Vice Chairman & CEO of Sanmar Shipyards, underlined the historical significance of the occasion and the strong bond between the two companies:

“The friendship between Sanmar and Ultratug goes back nearly 25 years. Over this time, mutual trust and respect have grown into a strong and lasting bond. Today, we are not only delivering a vessel but also celebrating this enduring friendship. UT PATZCUARO is the first tugboat we have delivered to Ultratug, and we are proud to have completed the project within the same year the contract was signed.”

He continued by noting that this collaboration will further expand across the continent:

“Our sister tug is currently under construction for Colombia, which will further strengthen the bond of trust between Sanmar and Ultratug across the Americas.”

The vessel

Designed by world-renowned naval architects Robert Allan Ltd., the RAmparts 2400SX-MKII design UT PATZCUARO combines powerful performance, exceptional manoeuvrability, and environmentally responsible technology. Measuring 24.4 metres in length, with a 12-metre beam and 5.45-metre draft, the tug delivers an impressive bollard pull of 75 tonnes and a free-running speed of 12.5 knots. Powered by IMO Tier III compliant CAT 3516E main engines and equipped with a Caterpillar SCR exhaust after-treatment system, UT PATZCUARO meets the highest emission standards while ensuring superior operational efficiency. The vessel also features Fi-Fi 1 fire-fighting capability and modern accommodation for up to eight crew members.

Ultratug’s view

Speaking on behalf of Ultratug, Jan Vermeij, CEO Ultranav, commented:

“Partnering with Sanmar Shipyards ensures that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our ports and clients while maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability. UT PATZCUARO represents a significant step forward in our operational capabilities and reflects our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.”

With this delivery, Sanmar Shipyards continues to expand its presence throughout the Americas, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted global leader in delivering technologically advanced and environmentally friendly tugboats to operators worldwide.