Silverback Marine completes sea trials for OX series truckable tug

Silverback Marine, Tacoma, Wash., has completed successful seatrials and commissioning of the OX series, twin Z-Drive equipped truckable tug earlier this month.

The concept was designed to fulfill the vision of a truly tow-capable, tractor tug style vessel to the non-Subchapter M market. Traditional truckable tugs, driven by prop and rudder, are suited strictly for pushing, with limited maneuverability. The OX tug however, introduces a 25- by 16-foot hull form with true tractor-tug lines, enabling the Schottel Z-Drive propulsion package to deliver a whopping 14,300 pounds of bollard pull astern.

Equipped with a Wintech, 480V 3 Phase towing winch, the tug also features two Wintech facing winches. The twin Cummins QSL9 diesel motors offer a strong yet fuel-efficient power package.
Another unique feature of the OX is the direct-glaze wheelhouse suite. Offering panoramic, 360-degree visibility, the large overhead spotter windows, coupled with a full-height forward window, offer the operator unmatched comfort. Additional seating in the wheelhouse for two crewmembers, and the large Norsap helm chair offer captain and crew luxurious passage.

“We are excited to offer towing companies a truly game-changing fleet option with the OX. Because of the nimble maneuverability, two of these smaller vessels can do the work of one costly, large vessel. With todays market challenges of licensed captain availability, Subchapter M costs, haulout and maintenance costs, the OX offers a truly cost effective, powerful solution to today’s changing market”.
The OX tug also makes for an attractive Z-Drive trainer, which can be utilized not only for exposing new operators to the benefits of Azimuth style control, but also a dual purpose asset that can produce revenue when not used for training.

The first vessel will operate for the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, working in ship assist and barge work. The vessel is available with a steel or aluminum hull option, and a wide range of interior customizations.