Four SAAM Towage tugs support the controlled float-off and 60-nautical-mile transfer of the 130-metre fully electric catamaran ‘China Zorrilla’ in Uruguay
SAAM Towage has successfully assisted in the float-off, towage and berthing of China Zorrilla, the 130-metre 100% electric catamaran, following its arrival in Uruguayan waters aboard Boskalis’ semi-submersible heavy transport vessel Black Marlin.
The technically complex operation involved four SAAM Towage tugs. The tugs Gaucho II and Portobelo directly assisted with the float-off manoeuvre in Nueva Palmira; this was followed by a non-stop ten-hour voyage of approximately 60 nautical miles to the port of Colonia, carried out by the Matrero and Matrero II.
“We are very pleased with the outcome of this operation, which required meticulous planning and seamless coordination among all the teams. In extraordinary operations like this, our crew’s experience and a strong safety culture make all the difference. We are proud to help make the major strides toward a more sustainable maritime industry a reality,” said Javiera Hevia, SAAM Towage’s Southern Cone Cluster Manager.
The operation began off the coast of Nueva Palmira with the release of the mooring lines holding the catamaran in place. In an area approximately 20 meters deep, the Black Marlin performed a controlled ballast maneuver—known as float-off—deliberately submerging its deck to allow the “China Zorrilla” to float using its own buoyancy.
At that moment, the SAAM Towage tugs sprang into action to stabilize the vessel and guide it safely to the port side of the mother ship.
With the catamaran already in the water, the transport phase began via the Martín García Channel en route to Colonia. To manage the structure, one tug was positioned at the bow and another at the stern, ensuring continuous steering throughout the nearly 10-hour journey.
The operation culminated in a high-precision berthing maneuver at the wharf in Colonia, where the tight spaces put the skill and technical ability of SAAM’s crews to the test.
“Participating in projects of global significance reaffirms our ability to carry out world-class operations. At SAAM, we combine innovation, safety and operational excellence to provide the industry with more efficient and cleaner solutions,” added Hevia.
