A TUG that has been part of Ports of Jersey’s fleet for nearly two decades is due to be chartered and sold.
Duke of Normandy will be delivered to the Caribbean in June and re-flagged under the Panama ship registry.
The announcement comes after Ports reached a commercial agreement with Dutch Caribbean operator Lead Marine Contractors, which will see the 26-metre tug chartered for two years before a final sale “at a market price”.
The JEP asked for financial details regarding the arrangement but was told the information was private.
In a statement, Ports said that the deal secures “short-term income” and “allows for the planned retirement of the vessel”.
“Money from the sale will be reinvested in our Marine Services fleet to drive longer term value for our Island,” the statement added.
Built in 2005, Duke of Normandy has served Ports’ fleet for nearly 20 years.
The States-owned entity has said the tug’s name has been reserved for future use, while its bell and naming plaque will be stored in the archive.
To ensure “continuity of local towage operations”, Ports recently acquired a 15-tonne bollard pull tug, formerly named Devout.
It will be renamed Fleur de Lis and based permanently in St Helier, providing year-round support for commercial and marine construction activity in local waters.
“The Marine Services division operates a fleet of five vessels, working both locally and for global infrastructure projects,” the statement from Ports continued.
“The fleet also provides on-board experience and training placements for Jersey-based Merchant Navy cadets and apprentices.
“This investment generates valuable income and supports Ports of Jersey’s commitment to achieving its strategic business objectives.”
