Foss Meets Growing Modular Business with New Barge

Foss Maritime is building a new ocean-going barge that will give the company an additional asset to transport large modules both domestically and internationally. The new vessel will be Jones Act qualified. Its anticipated maiden voyage from South Korea to Alaska's rugged North Slope will take place in 2015.

The 360-foot long by 120-foot wide by 20-foot deep barge will soon be under construction in the Portland, OR shipyard of Gunderson Marine. Delivery is expected in late 2014.

"This barge will further connect us to the shallow draft regions of the Arctic," said Gary Faber, Foss' president of global services. "It allows us to move modules and cargo, more safely, almost anywhere in the world; which adds tremendous value to our existing fleet."

The barge's first Foss job is expected in early 2015, when the company will perform a second sealift of oil and gas infrastructure to Point Thomson on Alaska's North Slope. The barge will likely be towed from South Korea by the first of three Arctic-class tugs that are being constructed at the company's Rainier, OR shipyard.

"With increased activity on the North Slope we continue to add to our Alaska capabilities," said Faber. "Along with our new Arctic-class Tugs, this barge will add yet another valuable asset."