Steamships has announced a K100 million investment to modernize Pacific Towing's (PacTow) fleet and expand maritime training, reinforcing the company's commitment to safer port operations, reliable marine services and the development of Papua New Guinea's maritime workforce.
The investment includes K70 million for two state-of-the-art tugboats that will become the most powerful and technologically advanced vessels of their kind operating in Papua New Guinea. The first tug, Pacific Responder, is expected to arrive in Port Moresby within the next six to eight weeks, followed by Pacific Resolute, which will be based in Lae.
A further K30 million will be invested in life-extension drydocking, technical upgrades and maintenance across PacTow's existing fleet to enhance operational reliability and ensure uninterrupted services at the country's key ports and trade corridors.
"PNG's ports, waterways and trade are too important to accept anything less than safe, properly maintained marine assets and absolute operational resilience," Steamships Managing Director Chris Daniells said.
"This investment reflects Steamships' commitment to our vision that we do not just operate here—we invest here—and that PNG deserves high-quality vessels, strong local crews and long-term investment in national maritime capability."
PacTow employs more than 250 people, with 97% of its workforce comprising Papua New Guinean nationals. Over nearly five decades, the company has built local maritime expertise through technical and operational training that meets national and international industry standards.
The investment also supports Steamships' Maritime Training Centre (MTC) in Port Moresby, which provides practical training for seafarers across the group's fleet, including PacTow's tug operations. The center also runs initiatives such as the Women in Maritime Scholarship Program, delivered in partnership with the Australian government, Swire Shipping and Consort Express Lines.
PacTow General Manager Gerard Kasnari said the investment would improve service reliability while strengthening the country's maritime workforce.
"This fleet renewal program will strengthen our fleet and support safer, more reliable service for customers," Kasnari said.
"Our tugs are important, but our people are our ultimate strength. Developing PNG's next generation of seafarers is one of the most important contributions we can make at a time when the country urgently needs qualified maritime professionals to support LNG, resource and coastal trade projects."
Beyond harbor towage, PacTow also provides ocean salvage, pollution response and emergency marine services, supporting coastal communities and helping protect Papua New Guinea's marine environment.
Steamships said details of the commissioning and naming ceremonies for Pacific Responder and Pacific Resolute in Port Moresby and Lae will be announced once schedules are finalized.
