VT Halter Delivers ATB Tug for Bouchard
VT Halter Marine, Inc. has delivered the 6,000hp Twin Screw Articulated (ATB) tug, MV Frederick E. Bouchard, to owner Bouchard Transportation Co., Inc. at the shipbuilder’s facilities in Pascagoula, Miss. on Wednesday, June 8, 2016.
The delivery, which culminates a two-vessel contract awarded by Bouchard Transportation to VT Halter Marine in August 2014, follows the delivery of the contract’s first vessel, MV Morton S. Bouchard Jr., on February 1, 2016. Both vessels were built to join Bouchard Transportation’s fleet for servicing the coastwise trade.
The two 6,000hp Twin Screw Articulated (ATB) tugs are both equipped with an Intercon Coupler System, measures 130 feet by 38 feet by 22 feet, are classed by ABS as +A1 Ocean Towing, Dual Mode ATB, USCG Subchapter C.
M/V Frederick E. Bouchard, which was launched on March 31 and completed sea trials on June 1, 2016, was named after another Bouchard’s family member, the brother of Morton S. Bouchard Jr.
“I am proud to announce the delivery of the MV Frederick E. Bouchard, as it marks the conclusion of our major fleet expansion plan in partnership with our dear friends at VT Halter Marine,” said Morton S. Bouchard III, President and CEO, Bouchard Transportation. “This vessel joins our fleet alongside the recent deliveries of the MV Morton S. Bouchard Jr., and our two newest ATB Units, MV Kim. M. Bouchard & B. No. 270 and MV Donna J. Bouchard & B. No. 272. Together, these vessels work to define Bouchard as a state of the art, fuel-efficient, and safe operation which will better serve our customers and crew for years to come.”
Jack Prendergast, Chief Executive Officer, VT Halter Marine, commented, “The recent successful sea trials of MV Frederick E. Bouchard and delivery today represents the integrity and commitment of VT Halter Marine to our valued customer, Bouchard Transportation and the entire Bouchard Transportation family.”