20/03/2026
VB Boluman entered service on the River Thames this week, strengthening Boluda UK’s Towage capability with the arrival of a new RSD 2513 tug, recently delivered from Shipyards in Vietnam.
The vessel is a state of the art Reversed Stern Drive (RSD) tug, specifically designed for high performance harbour and es**rt operations. With an 80 tonne bollard pull and full es**rt notation, VB Boluman is fully equipped to safely assist the largest vessels navigating the highly tidal and demanding waters of the Thames.
Measuring 24.7 metres in length with a beam of 13.1 metres, delivers exceptional power within a compact hull form. She is powered by twin Caterpillar 3516C main engines, delivering a combined output of over 5,000 kW, driving Kongsberg azimuthing rudder propellers in nozzles. This configuration provides outstanding manoeuvrability, precise control and strong indirect es**rt forces, even in challenging tidal conditions.
The tug is fully IMO Tier III compliant, achieving the most stringent NOx emission limits through an integrated Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system with dedicated urea tanks. This underlines Boluda Towage's ongoing commitment to reducing emissions and operating a more environmentally responsible fleet.
This highly capable addition will immediately begin operations on the River Thames, supporting both large deep sea vessels and smaller, more intricate movements within the hashtag .
Her combination of high power, compact dimensions and advanced systems makes VB Boluman ideally suited to the varied demands of one of the UK’s busiest and most complex waterways. Welcome to the family!