Damen to deliver Stan Tug 1706 ICE to Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation
Damen Shipyards Group has recently signed a contract with the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation in Canada for the delivery of a Stan Tug 1706 ICE. The community will use the tug to break ice during the colder months, enabling its ferry service to operate for a longer duration each year, covering periods both earlier and later in the season.
The Chippewas of Georgina Island community approached Damen having observed one of its tugs in operation in the region. The community is located on Lake Simcoe in Southern Ontario.
Vital transportation link
The acquisition of the Stan Tug 1706 ICE represents a vital improvement in community mobility and supply logistics. The remoteness of the Lake Simcoe region, and the harsh winter conditions it experiences, make safe, reliable transportation essential.
With its ice breaking capabilities, the tug will ensure wider operability of the community’s ferry service between Georgina Island and Virginia Beach on the mainland.
Before the freeze
Following construction of the hull in Poland, Damen will outfit the vessel in the Netherlands. Upon completion, Damen will deliver the vessel to Salaberry-de-Valleyfield in the Montreal region in September 2026, before the annual closure of the St. Lawrence Seaway.
After that, the client will continue the voyage to Lake Simcoe via the Trent-Severn Waterway before that, too, is closed to marine traffic until the following year.
Cultural meaning
The name of the tug has yet to be determined. However, it is known that it will receive a name with deep cultural meaning from one of the community’s elders in their native Anishinaabemowin, or Southern Ojibway, language.
Damen Sales Manager Americas Dominique Smit, said, “We are pleased to support the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation with a vessel that will help to maintain ferry operations in harsh winter conditions. It is an honour to contribute to the community’s connectivity and resilience, and we look forward to a long lasting relationship.”