As part of its strategy to strengthen operational efficiency and maintain a safe, reliable, and competitive service, the Panama Canal today, incorporated two new tugboats into its fleet. During a ceremony held at the Amador Cruise Terminal, the tugboats “Isla Carenero” and “Isla Parida” were christened as the newest boats in the Panama Canal’s fleet, each measuring 27 meters in length and 12 meters in beam. Jana Allen, Manager of Labor Relations and Regulations Administration, and Jania Guardia, Manager of Civil Works Contracts sponsored the two vessels.
These vessels play a key role in the daily operations at the canal assisting ships during lock entry and exit maneuvers, as well as during their passage through the Culebra Cut, one of the most demanding sections of the waterway. They are also essential for ensuring safe and efficient transits through the Neopanamax locks where maximum maneuverability and precision are required.
The newly incorporated tugboats are Z-Tech 6000 models, which are internationally recognized for their energy efficiency, high operational performance, and responsiveness. This design, adopted by major ports worldwide, has proven ideal for intensive support operations like those performed at the Panama Canal.
The Panama Canal first introduced Z-Tech tugboats in 2007 as part of its fleet modernization plan. With this latest addition, the Panama Canal reaffirms its commitment to staying at the forefront of technology to optimize resources and transit times.The tugboats are also part of a charter agreement with the CPT-PSAM consortium, which enables the Panama Canal to expand its operational capacity without compromising financial efficiency or fleet management flexibility.
With these new units, the Panama Canal continues to strengthen its ability to meet the demands of global trade, consolidating an operation that prioritizes efficiency, sustainability, and excellence in service.
