Pacific Towing, frequently referred to as PacTow, serves as a dominant provider of marine services within Papua New Guinea and the broader South Pacific region. Established over four decades ago, the company operates as a specialized division of the Steamships Trading Company, leveraging a long history of logistical experience to support the maritime supply chain across Melanesia. Its primary operational footprint is anchored in Papua New Guinea, where it maintains dedicated fleets in key commercial hubs including Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Madang, and Wewak. Through these bases, the organization delivers essential harbor towage services, assisting with the safe movement, berthing, and unberthing of international cargo vessels, tankers, and bulk carriers that drive the local economy.
While harbor towage forms the core of its daily activities, the company has diversified significantly to meet the complex demands of the offshore and salvage sectors. It operates a fleet of ocean-going tugs capable of executing long-distance tows and rapid emergency responses across the Pacific Ocean and Southeast Asia. This salvage capability is critical for regional maritime safety, providing assistance to vessels in distress and mitigating environmental risks associated with grounding or mechanical failure. Complementing surface operations, the firm maintains a fully accredited commercial diving unit that conducts underwater surveys, hull cleaning, and infrastructure repair, ensuring that vessels remain compliant and operational without requiring dry-docking.
The company also plays a vital role in the offshore energy sector, supplying specialized vessels for anchor handling and logistical support to oil and gas projects in the region. Beyond its technical assets, Pacific Towing is deeply integrated into the local maritime labor market. It places a heavy emphasis on capacity building through the training of Papua New Guinean seafarers, offering structured cadetships and upskilling programs. The organization is particularly noted for its efforts to advance gender equality within the industry, actively recruiting and training women for roles on deck and in engine rooms. By maintaining robust technical standards and fostering a skilled indigenous workforce, the company ensures the continuity of critical maritime transport and safety services throughout Oceania.
