SAAM and Enap have marked a significant milestone in maritime sustainability with the christening of Trapananda, Latin America’s first electric tugboat.
The electric tugboat, now operating in Puerto Chacabuco in Chile’s Aysén Region, represents a major step forward in the decarbonisation of the region’s port sector.
The Trapananda stands out for its zero direct CO2 emissions and its ability to reduce underwater noise, helping to protect marine life and actively contributing to a cleaner port environment.
The tug measures 25 metres in length, has a 13-metre beam, and delivers 70 tonnes of bollard pull. It is powered by two 2,100-kW electric azimuth thrusters and a 3,616–kWh lithium-ion battery, with a design optimised for energy efficiency and a projected battery life of ten years.
The tug will support ship berthing and unberthing operations at one of the world’s southernmost terminals.
SAAM CEO Macario Valdés said: “The arrival of the Trapananda marks a before and after for our industry. We are moving decidedly toward cleaner, more efficient and environmentally friendly operations.
“This project is a vision for the future: we are developing solutions that not only tow and assist ships, but also mobilise a shift towards a truly sustainable logistics chain. On this path, we have found in Enap a partner with a shared vision.”
The vessel, operated by a locally trained SAAM team, joins two electric tugboats already in service with the company in Canada.
Its christening ceremony at the Empormontt Passenger Terminal brought together local officials, company executives, and members of the maritime community, underlining the significance of this achievement.
Trapananda is named in honour of the ancient name for Chilean Patagonia.
This landmark for Chile and Latin America comes as ports around the world accelerate their own sustainability efforts. Most recently, China officially commissioned its first hydrogen-electric tugboat at Qingdao Port, marking a significant step in maritime decarbonisation and the advancement of zero-emission port operations. The vessel, named Hydrogen-Electric Tug No.1 or Qing Dian Tuo 1, began operations on 26 June 2025, following its construction by Jiangsu Zhenjiang Shipyard and development by the Liangang Innovation Team at Shandong Port Qingdao Port Group Co., Ltd.
