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McAllister adds to New York tug fleet
McAllister Towing has increased its fleet of low-emissions tugs operating in New York, US, with the addition of tractor tug Grace McAllister
This ABS-classed, 28-m tug has a beam of around 12 m, total installed power of 5,050 kW and achieved 85 tonnes of bollard pull during sea trials and certification.
It has two Caterpillar manufactured Cat 3516E main engines compliant with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier 4 emissions requirements, and two Schottel SRP 490 Z-drives.
Washburn & Doughty Associates built Grace McAllister at its shipyard in East Boothbay, Maine to its own design with Markey winches on the bow and stern.
McAllister said the EPA Tier IV engines and winches make Grace McAllister “one of the most advanced and powerful ship-docking tractor tugs serving the Port of New York.”
It joins other low-emissions tugs, including Ava McAllister and Capt Brian A McAllister in New York.
“Combining McAllister’s talented mariners and seasoned pilots with the newest and most technologically advanced tugboats on the East Coast, McAllister has set the bar for services unlike any other,” the tug owner said.
“The maritime industry will not only enjoy the safety and power of these tugs’ abilities, but can be assured their carbon footprint has been reduced while calling at US ports.”
2024 marks the 160th year of maritime expertise at McAllister Towing. The New York-headquartered owner took delivery of escort-class harbour tug Jane McAllister from Washburn & Doughty in Q3 2023 and will welcome Isabel McAllister from the same shipbuilder in 2024.
Riviera Maritime Media interviewed McAllister Towing president and chief executive Buckley McAllister in Q3 2023 after Jane McAllister’s delivery for the November/December issue of International Tug & Salvage.
During that interview, he explained why tugs with a higher bollard pull than the existing fleet were required to manoeuvre the large container ships calling at ports along the US eastern seaboard.
“The US Coast Guard assessed waterways suitability for the large container ships coming into New York harbour and recognised to bring post-Panamax ships into Port Newark, tugs would need tethered escort of 80 tonnes bollard pull or greater, which is what Jane McAllister offers,” said Mr McAllister.
McAllister Towing is fifth-generation owned and operated. It provides ship assistance and marine transport from Eastport, Maine, to San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The 27th International Tug & Salvage Convention, Exhibition & Awards will be held in association with Caterpillar in Dubai, UAE, 21-23 May 2024. Use this link for more details of this industry event and the associated social and networking opportunities; and this link to book your ticket for the exhibition, social gatherings and awards night.
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