• 2 min de lectura
• 2 min de lectura
In a high-precision technical operation, SAAM Towage completed the assistance for the discharge and transfer of the China Zorrilla, the world's largest 100% electric catamaran in its category, which will join the Buquebus fleet.
The vessel —130 meters long, 32 meters wide, and with an aluminum hull— arrived in Uruguayan waters aboard the Black Marlin, a semi-submersible vessel specialized in extra-heavy cargo.
The deployment involved the direct participation of the tugboats Gaucho II and Portobelo for the assisted float-off uncoupling maneuver in Nueva Palmira; and then, a journey of approximately 60 nautical miles and 10 hours of sustained navigation to the Port of Colonia carried out by Matrero and Matrero II.
"We are very satisfied with the result of this operation, which required millimeter-precise planning and absolute coordination among all teams. In extraordinary maneuvers like this, the experience of our crews and a solid safety culture make the difference. It is a source of pride to contribute to making great advances towards a more sustainable maritime industry a reality," highlighted SAAM's Southern Cone cluster manager, Javiera Hevia.
Operation
The operation began off the coast of Nueva Palmira, with the release of the lashings that held the catamaran. In an area approximately 20 meters deep, the Black Marlin executed a controlled ballasting maneuver, known as float off, deliberately submerging its deck to allow the China Zorrilla to float on its own.
At that moment, SAAM Towage tugboats sprang into action to stabilize the vessel and safely guide it to the port side of the mother ship.
With the vessel already in the water, the transfer phase began through the Martín García channel towards Colonia. To steer the structure, one tugboat was positioned at the bow and another at the stern, ensuring continuous direction during the approximately 10-hour journey.
The operation culminated in a high-precision berthing at the Colonia docks, whose reduced spaces tested the skill and technical capacity of SAAM's crews.
"Participating in globally relevant projects ratifies our ability to execute world-class operations. At SAAM, we combine innovation, safety, and operational excellence to connect the industry with more efficient and cleaner solutions," added Hevia.
