Built by Damen, Volta 1 is a 24.73-meter-long, 13.13-meter-wide RSD tugboat designed with a double bow and a patented Twin Fin skeg for enhanced stability and maneuverability. It has a towing capacity of 70 tons and a speed of 12 knots. Equipped with a 2,782 MWh battery, rechargeable in two hours via a 1.5 MW charging station, Volta 1 operates emission-free for up to 12 hours.
Construction of Volta 1 and the five RSD tugs began in Vietnam in 2023, with the vessels arriving in Antwerp in November 2024. Preparations, including technical setup, crew training, and charging infrastructure installation, preceded the launch. Vincent Maes, Sales Manager Benelux at Damen, stated: “We are delighted and very honoured to have been able to deliver the latest additions to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges tug fleet: five brand new and efficient diesel tugs equipped with after-treatment systems and an innovative electric tug, all of type RSD2513.”
The port has also introduced the world’s first hydrogen and methanol-powered tugs over the past 18 months, supporting its goal to become a multi-fuel port offering low-carbon fuel options alongside conventional and biofuels. Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, said: “The Volta 1 is a powerful example of our strategy to actively integrate sustainable technology into our operations. As a global port, we are taking our responsibility to pull the maritime sector into the energy transition.”
These initiatives align with the port’s commitment to reducing emissions and advancing sustainable maritime operations, contributing to its long-term environmental objectives.
