TRIESTE – The new concessionaire for the towage service in the port and roadstead of Ravenna has officially begun operations. The tender was awarded last year to S.E.R.S., part of MedTug (MSC-Boluda). A strategic step for the Romagna port, coming at the end of an administrative process launched in 2022 and coordinated by the Ravenna Harbour Master’s Office, with the support of the Port System Authority of the Central-Northern Adriatic Sea.
The new structure aims to significantly strengthen navigation safety and the port’s operational efficiency, at a time of major infrastructure transformation and traffic growth, also in connection with the start of operations of the offshore regasification unit (FSRU).
One of the central elements of the new concession is the strengthening of the fleet: the towage service will be provided by 11 tugboats in total, including 9 first-line and 2 second-line units, all equipped with latest-generation manoeuvring and steering systems.
This represents an increase both in number and in bollard pull compared with the previous configuration, with the aim of responding to growing port traffic and increasingly complex operations, particularly those linked to LNG carriers.
A further innovation concerns the separation of the service into two distinct areas: one for port operations and one dedicated to activities connected with the FSRU, with different operating structures, tariffs and accounting systems. The latter will be remodelled once the new breakwater protecting the facility and LNG units has been completed.
The duration of the concession, set at 15 years, with total expenditure of 432 million euros, reflects the strategic nature of the service for the port and national economy, the Authority emphasises. The tender specifications also provide for employment continuity through the absorption of the personnel already employed, ensuring stability for workers and organisational continuity.
The new operating structure will raise port safety standards through the introduction of higher-performing vessels, updated procedures and stronger firefighting resources.
The Ravenna Harbour Master’s Office – Coast Guard will continue to carry out constant supervision of compliance with the technical, operational and safety requirements set out in the tender.
