The Tog-Mor: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a notable development within the maritime industry, the versatile crane ship 'Tog Mor' has been acquired by HEBO Maritime Service following its successful salvage operation. Originally purchased by Allseas in 1997, this formidable vessel was transformed into a pipelay and construction ship between 2001 and 2002. It made a significant impact during its debut on the Interconnector Scotland-Ireland pipeline project, subsequently completing the safe installation of over 400 kilometers of nearshore pipeline on a global scale. The 'Tog Mor' was constructed in 1975 as a heavy-duty floating derrick, characterized by its Stülcken masts tailored for assembling large sections and modules of offshore production platforms. This vessel’s journey began with the notable construction of the Maureen platform in the North Sea and included the remarkable lift of the historic warship 'Mary Rose' from the seabed of the Solent. With HEBO’s acquisition, the 'Tog Mor' is set for a remarkable transformation into an offshore construction barge, which will be designated as 'HEBO-CB 1'. The refitted vessel is expected to bolster operations in civil and energy sectors, featuring an impressive 300-tonne crane, an eight-point mooring system, comfortable accommodations for 144 personnel, and 1,300 square meters of deck space. HEBO Maritime Service is gearing up to commence the conversion process shortly, marking a new chapter in the life of the 'Tog Mor'.

The recent grounding of the vessel 'Tog Mor' on the shores of Villa Allende, located in the municipality of Coatzacoalcos, has surprisingly spurred a beneficial economic effect in the area. This incident has created temporary job opportunities for approximately 20 local residents, who are engaged in cleanup efforts to remove debris left by the ship. The workers, all hailing from Villa Allende, are tasked with collecting foam, bottles, and various materials released by the grounded barge. The cleanup operation is anticipated to last between three to five days. To prevent potential looting of the vessel, security measures are in place, with the 'Tog Mor' under constant surveillance by Navy personnel and private security teams, who are conducting both land and sea patrols. As for the refloating of the 'Tog Mor,' no updates have been provided on when those efforts will commence. The grounding incident was triggered by intense winds and waves associated with cold front number 1 and tropical wave number 21. For more information, you can view the report including photos and videos at https://alornoticias.com.mx/noticias/video-barcaza-tog-mor-encallada-en-villa-allende-se-convierte-en-atractivo-y-genera-empleo-temporal-en-coatzacoalcos/

On September 8, 2023, a daring rescue operation unfolded in Coatzacoalcos, Mexico, as helicopters from Transportes Aéreos Pegaso, contracted by TC Energy, airlifted 135 crew members from the grounded barge 'Tog Mor'. The pipe-laying vessel found itself stranded due to powerful winds and high waves resulting from a cold front interacting with a tropical storm in southern Veracruz. Over a span of approximately 24 hours, all non-essential personnel were safely evacuated from the barge. Rescue teams also deployed a liferaft, establishing a connection between the ship and the shore, and carefully transported individuals through challenging surf conditions in organized small groups. The flat-bottomed barge was engaged in the construction of the Puerta al Sureste gas pipeline, designed to facilitate gas transport from Texas, USA, through Veracruz to Tabasco. As the storm intensified, 'Tog Mor' lost its moorings from three tugboats and became ensnared just 1,200 meters offshore while attempting to navigate to the port of Coatzacoalcos for safety precautions. Due to the severe weather, the rescue endeavor faced numerous challenges. Post-rescue, seven crew members remained on board to ensure the vessel’s security and manage future refloating operations. Salvage operations for 'Tog Mor' were slated to resume on September 10, following the reopening of Coatzacoalcos for large vessels. Additionally, specialized teams from TC Energy were enlisted to devise towing maneuvers. Maritime personnel from Houston, Texas, conducted an investigation on September 9 to assess the situation and formulate a comprehensive salvage plan. For further insights and visuals, visit: https://maritime-executive.com/article/allseas-pipelay-barge-goes-aground-off-mexico and https://www.eldictamen.mx/labores-rescate-barcaza-tog-mor-coatzacoalcos/#google_vignette.