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US shipyard launches ABS-class tugs for two owners
A shipyard in Alabama, USA, has launched the first tugs in newbuilding series it is producing for domestic owners
Master Boat Builders launched Saturn as the first H500 series tugboat it will be delivering to Texan owner Suderman & Young Towing. Four 30-m vessels are being built for the owner as high-performance escort tugs to ABS class and Robert Allan Ltd’s RApport 3000 design.
Offering accommodation for six crew members, they have a beam of 13 m, a bollard pull of 90 tonnes and a top speed of 13 knots. Propulsion consists of two diesel engines with a combined power of 5,220 kW, compliant with the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Tier 4 emissions standards, driving two azimuth thrusters on the stern.
Master Boat Builders president Garret Rice said these RApport 3000 tugs will provide operational flexibility across a range of port and escort assignments.
“Saturn is a testament to what is possible when expert shipbuilding meets forward-thinking design,” said Mr Rice. “We look forward to completing the remaining three in the series for Suderman & Young.”
This newbuilding programme comes as Suderman & Young is expanding its fleet and marine services in two ports in Texas near the Mexican border.
In late March, Master Boat Builders also launched Marauder, the first of eight tugboats being built in Coden for Maritime Partners. These 27-m tugs will be classed by ABS as escort tugs with automated machinery systems, underwater inspection in lieu of drydocking, FFV1 firefighting capabilities and low emissions, enabling it to comply with US EPA Tier 4 requirements.
“The launch of Marauder reflects what can be accomplished through strong industry partnerships and a shared focus on quality,” said Mr Rice.
“We are building vessels that meet the highest standards of performance, reliability and safety, and this project is a testament to their expertise,” he said. “We look forward to continuing to grow and strengthen our relationship with the team over at Maritime Partners.”
The full series will expand Maritime Partners’ operational capabilities across towing, escort and marine support services.
Also in April, Master Boat Builders delivered tugboat Jill to Gulf LNG Tugs of Port Arthur, a joint venture between US owners Bay-Houston Management, Bay Towing, Moran Towing and Suderman & Young.
The 28th International Tug & Salvage Convention, Exhibition & Awards will be held in Gothenburg, Sweden, in association with Caterpillar, 19-21 May 2026. Use this link for more details of this industry event and the associated social and networking opportunities.
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