GIANT TRANSPORT WITH BALTIC EAGLE

BOLUDA TOWAGE SAFELY ASSISTED GIANT TRANSPORT WITH BALTIC EAGLE 

On 2 February 2023, the convoy with the substation Baltic Eagle departed from Antwerp across the river Scheldt to the German offshore wind farm in the Baltic Sea. Two harbour tugs, VB Pearl and VB Emerald, and Tow Masters from Boluda Towage safely assisted the convoy when leaving the port.

The Baltic Eagle, a substation with dimensions of 50 meters in height, and 30 meters in width, weighing 4,550 tons, loaded on top of the barge H-406, required some special attention for leaving the port safely.

Prior to the departure of the convoy, various meetings were held with the different partners concerned. Amongst other representatives of Heerema Marine Contractors, Port Authorities of Antwerp-Bruges, Pilots, Linesmen, Dockpilots, the crew of the oceangoing tug Pacific Discovery, and Tow Masters of Boluda Towage, discussed the procedures and safety aspects of the towage assistance from the initial berth inside the Antwerp docks till the sailing on the River Scheldt. 

The narrow passage at the Lillo bridge, as well as the entrance and departure from the Zandvliet lock resulted in an overview of the required preparations, the actual operation, procedures, outlined responsibilities, communications, and operational restrictions. 

During the complete operation, two tow masters of Boluda Towage streamlined the coordination between the two harbour tugs, the pilots, and the leading oceangoing tug. A smooth cooperation between all teams involved contributed to the successful handling of the convoy.

The Baltic Eagle will be located in the waters of the Baltic Sea, some 28 km off the northeast coast of the German island of Rügen, in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania. It will be the first commercial offshore wind farm to use the turbines.