New Vessels on the Horizon: FAIRPLAY and Sanmar Sign at ITS2026
In May 2026, at the International Tug & Salvage Convention in Gothenburg, we signed our first newbuilding contract with Sanmar A.S. – a milestone for our fleet and a clear signal about the direction FAIRPLAY TOWAGE Group is heading.
Two new designs, one clear commitment
The agreement covers the construction of two vessels: one RAstar 3200SX and one Rampage 4200 design tugboat, both purpose-built for the demands of modern port and offshore towage operations. In addition, options for one additional set under the same projects have been agreed upon, giving us flexibility to expand further as our operational needs develop.
Both designs represent the current state of the art in tug engineering. The RAstar series is known for its azimuth stern drive configuration and strong bollard pull in restricted waters. The Rampage 4200 brings a high-performance hull optimised for escort and ship handling operations. Together, they complement our existing fleet and extend our capability across the range of environments where our teams work every day.
Why this matters
Investing in new vessels is never just about tonnage. It is a statement of confidence, in our operations, in our clients, and in the future of the industry. The maritime sector is evolving: regulatory demands are shifting, and port infrastructure across Northern Europe continues to grow in scale and complexity. The vessels we order today are the ones our crews will rely on ten, fifteen, twenty years from now.
Sanmar A.S. is one of the world’s leading tugboat builders, with a strong track record of delivering vessels that perform under real working conditions. The collaboration at ITS2026 was not just a contract signing – it was the result of detailed discussions about design, performance and long-term fit. We look forward to working together with Sanmar Shipyards and highly appreciate the professional exchange throughout the process.
What comes next
Construction timelines and further details will follow as the projects progress. What is clear now is the direction: continued investment in a fleet that is fit for the work ahead, operated by the crews who know how to use it.
This newbuilding contract underlines our continued commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainable fleet development.
