WILLEMSTAD – Kompania di Tou Kòrsou (KTK) proudly marks its 40th anniversary this year. Founded in 1985, the company has grown from a small local operator into a respected provider of maritime services in the region. Today, KTK stands as a trusted, safe, and flexible partner both in Curaçao and across the Caribbean, consistently adapting to the changing needs of the market.
On Curaçao, KTK is responsible for all harbor towage services, mooring and unmooring of vessels, as well as the transportation of pilots. This makes the company a vital link in the island’s logistics chain and maritime infrastructure. Beyond its commercial role, KTK also contributes to port safety: its crews are highly trained and its vessels equipped with advanced fire-fighting systems, enabling them to support Curaçao’s fire brigade when needed. KTK works closely with Fort Nassau, pilots, and the Harbor Master.
Over the years, KTK has transformed from a local towage provider into a regional maritime player. The company now operates a fleet of 12 vessels, six of which serve regional markets, while the remainder are dedicated to Curaçao’s harbor operations. In the Caribbean, KTK is recognized for its modern and powerful fleet and experienced crews.
The journey, however, has not been without setbacks. In 2019, KTK was hit hard by the closure of the Isla refinery and the decline in activity at the Bullenbaai terminal, which sharply reduced tanker traffic—long the company’s main source of revenue. The COVID-19 pandemic further compounded the crisis, dealing what KTK describes as an unprecedented blow. Despite these challenges, the company continued to provide essential services for Curaçao while actively seeking new contracts in other Caribbean markets. Survival required difficult and sometimes painful decisions.
In response, KTK pursued diversification and expansion into new markets to reduce reliance on the local economy. A major milestone was the establishment of Kompania di Tou Boneiru, which secured a concession to operate in Bonaire’s territorial waters. KTK also secured long-term contracts in Aruba, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Eustatius, and Saba (BES islands), where it remains active today.
“Curaçao will always be our home base, but our horizon extends to the wider Caribbean and beyond. The lessons of recent years have shown us that challenges often bring new opportunities,” said Managing Director Surldric Rojer. “With the right motivated personnel, an adequate fleet, and an enthusiastic spirit, KTK is ready for the next 40 years.”
Entering its 41st year, KTK is focused on strengthening its services on Curaçao while continuing to expand its regional footprint. After weathering difficult times, the company is once again performing positively and is steadily working toward stabilization and growth. In short, KTK’s strategic vision is to keep its anchor firmly in Curaçao while broadening its presence across the Caribbean and beyond.
