Two ocean-going tugs from the fleet operated by Boskalis, a Dutch offshore services provider, have undertaken a floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) tow mission across the Atlantic.
Boskalis has recently highlighted the significant role its two ocean-going tugs, BOKA Alpine and BOKA Glacier, played in a remarkable FPSO towage operation. Both tugs possess an impressive bollard pull of 205 metric tons, showcasing their capability to handle heavy loads with ease. In this operation, they successfully towed the FPSO Cidade de Niterói (MV18) from the Campos Basin offshore Brazil to Frederikshavn in Denmark.
The journey was no small feat; it spanned approximately six weeks and included a crucial bunkering stop in Cape Verde to refuel. This transatlantic journey not only tested the endurance and reliability of the tugs but also underscored Boskalis’ expertise in complex, long-distance towing operations. The successful delivery of the 315-meter-long FPSO demonstrated the company’s capability to manage intricate logistical challenges in maritime engineering.
“The strength, endurance, and reliability of the BOKA Alpine and BOKA Glacier made them ideally suited for this challenging assignment,” said Boskalis spokespersons. They emphasized the importance of careful preparation, close coordination, and teamwork throughout the voyage, illustrating the multifaceted nature of such marine operations.
The FPSO itself boasts impressive capabilities, processing up to 100,000 barrels of crude oil per day and 124 million standard cubic feet of gas daily, with a storage capacity of 1,600,000 barrels of crude oil. This operational efficiency has been crucial to its successful tenure in the Campos Basin.
Prior to its relocation, the FPSO Cidade de Niterói operated at Petrobras’ Marlim Leste oil field from February 2009 until the conclusion of its charter contract in May 2026. Modec managed the engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning of the FPSO, showcasing a thorough and dedicated approach to project management in the oil and gas sector.
After its successful tow to Denmark, the FPSO arrived in June 2026 at Modern American Recycling Services Europe’s ship recycling facility in Frederikshavn, marking the end of its operational lifecycle in Brazil.
Boskalis expressed gratitude to the crews of both tugs for their hard work during this challenging transport. The collaboration with MODEC throughout the project was also acknowledged, highlighting the synergy that is essential for complex marine operations.
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