Set to play a crucial role in maintaining port access
November 20, 2025By Seawork Press FP
Damen Shipyards
Marine Civils
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Successful dredge trials have taken place for two of four advanced dredging component packages delivered to vessels under construction in Central America.
These Trailing Suction Hopper Dredgers (TSHDs) are set to play a crucial role in maintaining port access, supporting local economies, and performing essential tasks such as land reclamation and beach replenishment.
The hopper dredgers, albeit not designed or built by Damen, are each equipped with a state-of-the-art dredge package designed and manufactured by Damen. Each package includes a 700-millimetre trailing suction pipe designed to operate at depths of up to 25 metres, a powerful dredge pump, and a bow coupling unit for efficient material discharge.
Horacio Delgado Bravo, Damen Sales Manager, commented, "The successful cooperation with all parties involved has been instrumental in the completion of these vessels. We are proud to contribute by delivering fit-for-purpose dredging systems, entirely designed and manufactured in the Netherlands.
“This high-quality dredging gear ensures the success of the vessels for decades to come. Furthermore, this is another example of Damen Technical Cooperation’s concept, under which Damen contributes to the development of local shipbuilding.”
Additional features such as overflows, bottom dump valves, jet water pumps, nozzles, and advanced dredge monitoring instrumentation ensure optimal performance and reliability during dredging operations.
All dredge packages were manufactured at the Damen Dredging Equipment yard in Nijkerk, the Netherlands, and shipped to the various yards for installation. The remaining two vessels are expected to be finished in 2026.
