Happy to be here

A simple LinkedIn post said it all. "Happy to be here, TUGTECHNOLOGY Conference 2023 Rotterdam". The post was by COLTUGS fleet and operations manager Cristian Franco however the feeling was universal.

Almost 400 tug and towage industry professionals networked, initiated and concluded deals, updated themselves on the latest industry developments and celebrated industry achievement. Adding to the sunny mood of the delegates were long and glorious summer-like days which made socialising at Gastrobar Elvy at nhow Rotterdam Hotel, or the Kooren Terminal or BrewDog Rotterdam all the more valuable - everyone turned out - and everyone enjoyed the occasions.

While the mood at these events was light hearted the subject matter in the packed conference auditorium was serious spanning owner/operator and ports and harbour roundtable discussions and intense discussions on fuels, safety, electrification, automation, safety and crewing.  

Business was concluded, including high profile agreements such as the one inked between Boluda Towage and Damen Shipyards to bring new tugs powered by batteries and/or methanol fuel into northern or southern European ports. Considerable business was also concluded away from the spotlight with the sold out exhibition a veritable hive of activity from the beginning of the conference to the end. 

Delegate feedback has cited this year’s TUGTECHNOLOGY as the best yet and highlighted that there is a marked increase in the attendance of senior owners, operators and ports. Or to put it another way: The industry was happy to be here. 

Next stop is ITS 2024 (in May). We hope to you can join us.