Innovations in Tug Technology: Honoring Industry Leaders in Antwerp
Key Ideas
- Port of Antwerp-Bruges wins Tug Owner of the Year for its leadership in operating efficient, low-emission tugs, including the world's first hydrogen tug and methanol-fueled tugboat.
- CMB.TECH’s Hydrotug 1, using compressed hydrogen fuel, operates for zero-emissions ship handling at Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
- Industry recognizes environmentally friendly tug fleets, innovation in maritime logistics, and leadership in low-emission operations across the Americas at the awards ceremony.
- ITS Awards honor vessels, operators, innovators, and individuals setting new operational excellence benchmarks, like the LNG Sentinel I, a high-performance LNG-diesel fuelled terminal tug in Hong Kong.
The Tug Technology conference and exhibition in Antwerp celebrated industry excellence by awarding leading tug owners and innovations. Port of Antwerp-Bruges secured the Tug Owner of the Year 2025 for its remarkable efforts in operating highly efficient and low-emission tugs. The port is a pioneer in testing alternative fuels, including operating the world's first hydrogen tug, methanol-fueled tugboat, and battery-electric harbor tug in one of the world's busiest ports. The Hydrotug 1, powered by compressed hydrogen fuel, has been operational at the port since December 2024, contributing to zero-emissions ship handling. The awards also recognized other industry players like HaiSea Marine, Kotug International, SAAM Towage, and Svitzer for their environmental initiatives and innovative approaches. Additionally, the LNG Sentinel I, a high-performance LNG-diesel fueled terminal tug in Hong Kong, won the ITS Tug of the Year 2025, showcasing advancements in emissions reduction and operational efficiency. The event highlighted the importance of sustainability, innovation, and excellence in the maritime industry, with a particular focus on reducing emissions and embracing new technologies for a greener future.