Deep draughted APL Charleston departs Felixstowe with two Svitzer tugs. 7th November 2017

The APL Charleston departs Felixstowe Berth 7 with assistance of two Svitzer tugs.  As she had a deep draught of 13.9 metres she was tide restricted and had to depart fairy swiftly. With the tide dropping off there was an urgency to get her out on this tide.

An hour before the pilot was meant to board Harwich VTS asked if the 2 tugs could get to the APL 15:15 sharp as they were concerned about the tide.  Svitzer Deben and Svitzer Shotley took a turn at the stern of the ship until they were required. 

The pilot onboard radios VTS to say they were ready for the services and the two tugs.  Svitzer Deben approaches the stern to make fast centre lead aft while the Shotley heads towards the bow to make fast centre lead forward.

Both tugs fast,  the lines fore and aft were slackened and winched back onboard with spring lines the last to be released.  Shortly after the pilot gets both tugs to pull straight off at 85% to get her moving then varies the tugs power until they were in the channel.

 Shotley eases up and get in a position to let go while the Deben drops in astern as the APL comes ahead on the main engine.  Deben moves starboard side to get out of the wash but as APL Charleston turns at the Guard Buoy, the pilot radios Deben that she was turning ok and they could close up to let go.