SS Badger-Lake Michigan Carferry-Notice

Due to poor Lake Michigan weather conditions expected on Saturday, October 5, Lake Michigan Carferry has cancelled tomorrow morning’s crossing (9:00 am EST) from Ludington, MI, and the 2:00 pm CST departure from Manitowoc, WI.

We understand the disappointment and inconvenience this decision causes and apologize for the impact it has on travel plans. While we are always committed to delivering an exceptional and comfortable cross-lake travel experience, a gale wind forecast with waves building from 6 – 9 feet and occasionally to 12 feet will make it impossible to do so in this instance.

Our customer service and reservation team are ready to offer alternatives designed to ensure your satisfaction and minimize this disruption to your travel plans.

If you already have tickets, a full refund is available. Weather permitting, the SS Badger is expected to sail on Sunday, October 6. The 2024 SS Badger sailing season ends on Sunday night.

Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact our customer support team at 1-800-841-4243or email us at info@ssbadger.com. Throughout this process, we are here to address any concerns you may have.

Thank you for understanding and your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming aboard the SS Badger for a future Lake Michigan crossing.

 

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

 

Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering
in the Soo Oct. 3-6

If you are in the Soo Oct. 3-6, join us for a Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering. On Friday afternoon there will be a special Boatnerd locks/river cruise courtesy of Original Soo Locks Boat Tours (see image). This is a very informal event, just another chance to get together before winter. https://www.facebook.com/events/1037156117917546

Your guide to freighter watching in southeast Michigan: What to know

Detroit, MI – Horsepower, booming horns and big waves off the Detroit River: For freighter watchers, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Freighter watching, where people observe and photograph ships crossing waterways, has a loyal following in Detroit and Windsor, thanks to the Detroit River bordering both cities.

Marty Flore’s love of freighters on open water started when he was a teenager and his dad sailed the Great Lakes. “I’ve even got to go on some freighters with him,” said Flore, 69, of Windsor.

That long ago experience ultimately led Flore to organize in 2019 the Detroit River Freighters, a Facebook group of nearly 3,000 Boatnerds that share photos of ships they find on the Detroit River and meet up when a unique ship comes to town.

The group, which includes members from Canada and Michigan, has become a place where people along the Detroit River can easily come together to share their passion for big ships.

“We were over there in Detroit a few weeks ago. You guys got the riverwalk now and you can see everything from there,” Flore said.

Whether you’re new to freighter watching or just looking for some new tips, here’s what metro Detroit has to offer:

How to track ships

The first step to shipwatching is using a ship traffic website. This ensures you know what ships are close and where to get the best view. To check freighter travel in Michigan, visit the MarineTraffic.com website. This automatic identification system tracks ships globally and tells you where ships are coming from, where they’re going and at what speed.

What to look for

Look for differences between the ships, including the ship’s origin, cargo and speed. Certain vessels are made to transport unique and special cargo. If that’s more than you care to know, skip the details and just watch the ship calmly glide across the water.

There are many areas to spot a freighter on the Detroit River. Here are three popular ones:

    Riverside Park: The 29-acre park on Detroit’s southwest riverfront is equipped with soccer fields, picnic areas and a basketball court. It’s a great location for catching freighters. Riverside Park is located at 3085 W Jefferson Ave.

    William Livingstone Memorial Light/Belle Isle: While visitors of Belle Isle cannot access the inside of William Livingstone Memorial Light, you can see the freighters pass behind the lighthouse off the shore. Belle Isle is located at 2 Inselruhe Avenue in Detroit.

    Belanger Park: The 9.5-acre park located at 1 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge is a destination for freighter-watchers to watch ships travel across the Detroit River. The park has a waterfront gazebo, two picnic pavilions, a walking path and a play area for children. Visitors can see freighters from the boardwalk.

For shipwatchers who don’t want to leave their home, the Detroit Historical Society allows viewers to watch freighters pass on the Detroit River using the RiverCam. The camera is mounted on the roof of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and streams 24/7 live on Youtube. https://detroithistorical.org/dossin-great-lakes-museum/detroit-river-watch-webcam

Editor’s Note: Another great way to find out about the boats is to pick up a copy of the annual field guide Know Your Ships: Guide to Boats and Boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Order at knowyourships.com

Detroit Free Press

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

Cancer claims maritime volunteer Kari Ann David

Kari Ann David, 57, passed away on Saturday, September 28th, 2024 at Marshfield Hospital, Marshfield, WI. Visitation and a service will be held at Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home on Saturday, October 12th. The visitation will begin at 9 a.m. and go until the start of service at noon. American Legion Post 54 will provide Military Honor at the funeral home following the Memorial Service.

 Kari was a firm believer that if you can help out, you should. She was a member and volunteer of many organizations. These organizations included: Wisconsin Horseshoe Pitchers Association, Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society, Great Lake Lighthouse Society, Westboro Fish and Wildlife Club, Crisp Point Lighthouse Society, SS Meteor Maritime Museum, and hanging wreaths and donating baked goods to the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King. In addition to all of that, she also found time for camping, fishing, baking, and cooking.

She was loved by all who knew her and made many friends in the Great Lakes shipping community both and off the boats. She never let her long battle with breast cancer or the health issues that came along with it stop her from helping people or going on awesome adventures.

Kari was also a proud service member. She was a paratrooper in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division.

Kari was born on August 18th, 1967. The daughter of Roger and Rachel (Woltmann) Seefeldt. She attended and graduated from Waupaca High School. It was in October of 1999 that she married the love of her life, Craig David, at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield Kari is survived by her loving husband: Craig; children: Gunnar (Alyssa) and Malachi (Emily); and beloved dog: Reuben.

She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws, and her parents Roger and Rachel Seefeldt.

 Soo Locks Plaza project taking shape with placement
of models

Sault Ste. Marie, MI – The Soo Locks Plaza, a place for learning and inspiration, a part of the Soo Locks Canal Park began taking shape this summer with the placement of new weathertight cases and the installation of two models of the Soo Locks facility.

The birds eye view of one of the models provides a look into the future showing the entire facility, as it will appear after completion of the New Lock at the Soo. Created in 2022, the model includes ships approaching the locks, the bridges on the western end of the facility and even tiny yellow carts near many of the buildings.

The second model recently installed offers a look into the past. After decades in the park, crews removed this model for professional restoration in 2020. Originally built in 1893, this model features the original Poe Lock, which operated from 1896-1960. Sometime in the 1940s the model was modified to include the MacArthur Lock.

A third case with a restored 1912 model of the Davis Lock and wayside exhibits will be added to the plaza later in the year.

The Soo Locks Plaza project is the result of a partnership between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Soo Locks Visitor Center Association, other community agencies and individual donors to rehabilitate the historic models and return them to the park with informative exhibits creating a place for learning and inspiration for visitors.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District

Lakes Limestone Trade Up 9.4 Percent in September

CLEVELAND — Shipments of limestone on the Great Lakes totaled 3.8 million tons in September, an increase of 9.4 percent compared to a year ago.  Limestone cargos were also above the month’s 5-year average by 4.5 percent. 

Loadings from U.S. quarries totaled 3.1 million tons, an increase of 10.6 percent from 2023.  Shipments from Canadian quarries totaled 678,580 tons, an increase of 4.2 percent. 

Year-to-date the limestone trade stands at 20.8 million tons, an increase of 1.8 percent compared to a year ago.  Loadings from Michigan and Ohio quarries increased 2 percent to 16.7 million tons; while shipments from Ontario quarries increased less than 1 percent from 2023 to 4.1 million tons.
[See Chart in Gallery below]

U.S. ports: Calcite, MI; Cedarville, MI; Drummond Island, MI; Marblehead, OH; Port Inland, MI; and Presque Isle, MI.  Canadian ports: Bruce Mines, Manitoulin Island, Port Colborne (from August 2017 on), and Smelter Bay (all Ontario).

Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering
in the Soo Oct. 3-6

If you are in the Soo Oct. 3-6, join us for a Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering. On Friday afternoon there will be a special Boatnerd locks/river cruise courtesy of Original Soo Locks Boat Tours (see image). This is a very informal event, just another chance to get together before winter. https://www.facebook.com/events/1037156117917546

Your guide to freighter watching in southeast Michigan: What to know

Detroit, MI – Horsepower, booming horns and big waves off the Detroit River: For freighter watchers, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Freighter watching, where people observe and photograph ships crossing waterways, has a loyal following in Detroit and Windsor, thanks to the Detroit River bordering both cities.

Marty Flore’s love of freighters on open water started when he was a teenager and his dad sailed the Great Lakes. “I’ve even got to go on some freighters with him,” said Flore, 69, of Windsor.

That long ago experience ultimately led Flore to organize in 2019 the Detroit River Freighters, a Facebook group of nearly 3,000 Boatnerds that share photos of ships they find on the Detroit River and meet up when a unique ship comes to town.

The group, which includes members from Canada and Michigan, has become a place where people along the Detroit River can easily come together to share their passion for big ships.

“We were over there in Detroit a few weeks ago. You guys got the riverwalk now and you can see everything from there,” Flore said.

Whether you’re new to freighter watching or just looking for some new tips, here’s what metro Detroit has to offer:

How to track ships

The first step to shipwatching is using a ship traffic website. This ensures you know what ships are close and where to get the best view. To check freighter travel in Michigan, visit the MarineTraffic.com website. This automatic identification system tracks ships globally and tells you where ships are coming from, where they’re going and at what speed.

What to look for

Look for differences between the ships, including the ship’s origin, cargo and speed. Certain vessels are made to transport unique and special cargo. If that’s more than you care to know, skip the details and just watch the ship calmly glide across the water.

There are many areas to spot a freighter on the Detroit River. Here are three popular ones:

    Riverside Park: The 29-acre park on Detroit’s southwest riverfront is equipped with soccer fields, picnic areas and a basketball court. It’s a great location for catching freighters. Riverside Park is located at 3085 W Jefferson Ave.

    William Livingstone Memorial Light/Belle Isle: While visitors of Belle Isle cannot access the inside of William Livingstone Memorial Light, you can see the freighters pass behind the lighthouse off the shore. Belle Isle is located at 2 Inselruhe Avenue in Detroit.

    Belanger Park: The 9.5-acre park located at 1 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge is a destination for freighter-watchers to watch ships travel across the Detroit River. The park has a waterfront gazebo, two picnic pavilions, a walking path and a play area for children. Visitors can see freighters from the boardwalk.

For shipwatchers who don’t want to leave their home, the Detroit Historical Society allows viewers to watch freighters pass on the Detroit River using the RiverCam. The camera is mounted on the roof of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and streams 24/7 live on Youtube. https://detroithistorical.org/dossin-great-lakes-museum/detroit-river-watch-webcam

Editor’s Note: Another great way to find out about the boats is to pick up a copy of the annual field guide Know Your Ships: Guide to Boats and Boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Order at knowyourships.com

Detroit Free Press

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

Great Lakes Iron Ore Trade Down 1.9 Percent in September

CLEVELAND – Shipments of iron ore from U.S. ports on the Great Lakes totaled 5.5 million tons in September, a decrease of 1.9 percent compared to a year ago.  Shipments were above the month’s 5-year average by 6.6 percent.

Year-to-date the iron ore trade stands at 36.5 million tons, a decrease of less than 1 percent compared to the same point in 2023. 

Through September iron ore loadings are 7.3 percent above their 5-year average for the first three quarters of the year.

Since 1880, Lake Carriers’ has represented the U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet, which today can move more than 90 million tons of cargos annually that are the foundation of American industry, infrastructure, and power: iron ore, stone, coal, cement, and other dry bulk materials such as grain, salt, and sand.  More information is available at www.lcaships.com.

[See Charts Below in gallery]

Eric Peace
Vice President
Lake Carriers’ Association
25651 Detroit Road, Suite 102
Westlake, Ohio  44145
(440) 333-9996 (office) | (410) 703-8792 (mobile)
www.lcaships.com

Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering in the Soo Oct. 3-6

If you are in the Soo Oct. 3-6, join us for a Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering. On Friday afternoon there will be a special Boatnerd locks/river cruise courtesy of Original Soo Locks Boat Tours (see image). This is a very informal event, just another chance to get together before winter. https://www.facebook.com/events/1037156117917546

Your guide to freighter watching in southeast Michigan: What to know

Detroit, MI – Horsepower, booming horns and big waves off the Detroit River: For freighter watchers, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Freighter watching, where people observe and photograph ships crossing waterways, has a loyal following in Detroit and Windsor, thanks to the Detroit River bordering both cities.

Marty Flore’s love of freighters on open water started when he was a teenager and his dad sailed the Great Lakes. “I’ve even got to go on some freighters with him,” said Flore, 69, of Windsor.

That long ago experience ultimately led Flore to organize in 2019 the Detroit River Freighters, a Facebook group of nearly 3,000 Boatnerds that share photos of ships they find on the Detroit River and meet up when a unique ship comes to town.

The group, which includes members from Canada and Michigan, has become a place where people along the Detroit River can easily come together to share their passion for big ships.

“We were over there in Detroit a few weeks ago. You guys got the riverwalk now and you can see everything from there,” Flore said.

Whether you’re new to freighter watching or just looking for some new tips, here’s what metro Detroit has to offer:

How to track ships

The first step to shipwatching is using a ship traffic website. This ensures you know what ships are close and where to get the best view. To check freighter travel in Michigan, visit the MarineTraffic.com website. This automatic identification system tracks ships globally and tells you where ships are coming from, where they’re going and at what speed.

What to look for

Look for differences between the ships, including the ship’s origin, cargo and speed. Certain vessels are made to transport unique and special cargo. If that’s more than you care to know, skip the details and just watch the ship calmly glide across the water.

There are many areas to spot a freighter on the Detroit River. Here are three popular ones:

    Riverside Park: The 29-acre park on Detroit’s southwest riverfront is equipped with soccer fields, picnic areas and a basketball court. It’s a great location for catching freighters. Riverside Park is located at 3085 W Jefferson Ave.

    William Livingstone Memorial Light/Belle Isle: While visitors of Belle Isle cannot access the inside of William Livingstone Memorial Light, you can see the freighters pass behind the lighthouse off the shore. Belle Isle is located at 2 Inselruhe Avenue in Detroit.

    Belanger Park: The 9.5-acre park located at 1 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge is a destination for freighter-watchers to watch ships travel across the Detroit River. The park has a waterfront gazebo, two picnic pavilions, a walking path and a play area for children. Visitors can see freighters from the boardwalk.

For shipwatchers who don’t want to leave their home, the Detroit Historical Society allows viewers to watch freighters pass on the Detroit River using the RiverCam. The camera is mounted on the roof of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and streams 24/7 live on Youtube. https://detroithistorical.org/dossin-great-lakes-museum/detroit-river-watch-webcam

Editor’s Note: Another great way to find out about the boats is to pick up a copy of the annual field guide Know Your Ships: Guide to Boats and Boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Order at knowyourships.com

Detroit Free Press

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

Mariners mourn the sudden passing of Aaron Bensinger

Great Lakes mariners are mourning the sudden passing Tuesday morning of Aaron Bensinger, vice president of InterShip, a division of Central Marine Logistics. He was well-known and respected around the Great Lakes.

 Aaron’s celebration of life is planned for Saturday, October 5, at Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home in Oak Lawn, Ill.

Central Marine Logistics operates the Wilfred Sykes and Joseph L. Block on the Great Lakes.

Last Month to Board Col. James M. Schoonmaker
Museum Boat and Museum Tug Ohio

Tuesday, October 1, 2024 (Toledo, Ohio) – October is here and the National Museum of the Great Lakes reminds our community that it’s the final month to board and explore the Col.James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and Museum Tug Ohio before they close for the season.

Both vessels will be open to the public until Thursday, October 31, with the final boarding call at 4 pm. The boats will close for the winter beginning on November 1 and reopen on May 1, 2025. Our winter hours will also begin on November 1, and the museum will be closed on Tuesdays until the spring.

Additionally, on Wednesday, October 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the museum will host its first-ever Maritime Career Day. While the museum will remain open to all visitors, there will be larger crowds and job fair participants set up throughout the exhibit spaces. We encourage guests to take this into consideration when planning their visit that day.For more information or to plan your visit, please visit www.nmgl.org.

WHAT: Final Month to Board the Museum Boats

WHEN: Boats Close November 1, 2024

WHERE: National Museum of the Great Lakes

1701 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605

ADMISSION: $17.00 (Museum & Ship) – Adults (18-64)

$16.00 (Museum & Ship) – Seniors (65+)

$14.00 (Museum & Ship) – Youth (6-17)

FREE – Children 5 and under, GLHS/NMGL Members

 

Boo on the Boat: A Spooky, Fun-Filled Halloween Weekend

Aboard the Col. James M. Schoonmaker and Museum Tug Ohio

Tuesday, October 1, 2024 (Toledo, Ohio) – Get ready for a hauntingly good time as the National Museum of the Great Lakes invites families to Boo on the Boat from Friday, October 25 through Sunday, October 27. Bring your ghouls and goblins for trick-or-treating aboard two of Toledo’s most historic haunts: the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and the Museum Tug Ohio.

Treats will be offered in pre-portioned, sealed bags at various spooky stations aboard both boats, making it an enjoyable and safe way for children to discover the mysteries and histories of our museum boats. In keeping with our commitment to inclusion, we also participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project, offering non-food treats for children with food allergies.

“Our Boo on the Boat event is a family favorite, providing a fun and welcoming environment for children and adults alike to enjoy the Halloween season while learning about Great Lakes history,” said Ellen Kennedy, Director of Museum Operations. “We love seeing families return each year to explore our ships in their costumes and make memories.”

All children must be accompanied by an adult. Event participation is included with Museum

Boat admission and is free for our members and Museum for All participants (families receiving SNAP benefits).

Special Weekend Feature
On Saturday, October 26, from 10 AM to 4 PM, don’t miss local artist Don Lee, who will be aboard the Schoonmaker drawing personalized caricatures for guests. This uniqueexperience is included with admission.

For more information on Boo on the Boat and other upcoming events, visit nmgl.org/events.

WHAT: Boo on the Boat

WHEN: October 25-27 from 10 am to 4 pm

WHERE: National Museum of the Great Lakes

1701 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605

ADMISSION: $17.00 (Museum & Ship) – Adults (18-64)

$16.00 (Museum & Ship) – Seniors (65+)

$14.00 (Museum & Ship) – Youth (6-17)

FREE – Children 5 and under, GLHS/NMGL Members/Museums for All

Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering in the Soo Oct. 3-6

If you are in the Soo Oct. 3-6, join us for a Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering. On Friday afternoon there will be a special Boatnerd locks/river cruise courtesy of Original Soo Locks Boat Tours (see image). This is a very informal event, just another chance to get together before winter. https://www.facebook.com/events/1037156117917546

Your guide to freighter watching in southeast Michigan: What to know

Detroit, MI – Horsepower, booming horns and big waves off the Detroit River: For freighter watchers, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Freighter watching, where people observe and photograph ships crossing waterways, has a loyal following in Detroit and Windsor, thanks to the Detroit River bordering both cities.

Marty Flore’s love of freighters on open water started when he was a teenager and his dad sailed the Great Lakes. “I’ve even got to go on some freighters with him,” said Flore, 69, of Windsor.

That long ago experience ultimately led Flore to organize in 2019 the Detroit River Freighters, a Facebook group of nearly 3,000 Boatnerds that share photos of ships they find on the Detroit River and meet up when a unique ship comes to town.

The group, which includes members from Canada and Michigan, has become a place where people along the Detroit River can easily come together to share their passion for big ships.

“We were over there in Detroit a few weeks ago. You guys got the riverwalk now and you can see everything from there,” Flore said.

Whether you’re new to freighter watching or just looking for some new tips, here’s what metro Detroit has to offer:

How to track ships

The first step to shipwatching is using a ship traffic website. This ensures you know what ships are close and where to get the best view. To check freighter travel in Michigan, visit the MarineTraffic.com website. This automatic identification system tracks ships globally and tells you where ships are coming from, where they’re going and at what speed.

What to look for

Look for differences between the ships, including the ship’s origin, cargo and speed. Certain vessels are made to transport unique and special cargo. If that’s more than you care to know, skip the details and just watch the ship calmly glide across the water.

There are many areas to spot a freighter on the Detroit River. Here are three popular ones:

    Riverside Park: The 29-acre park on Detroit’s southwest riverfront is equipped with soccer fields, picnic areas and a basketball court. It’s a great location for catching freighters. Riverside Park is located at 3085 W Jefferson Ave.

    William Livingstone Memorial Light/Belle Isle: While visitors of Belle Isle cannot access the inside of William Livingstone Memorial Light, you can see the freighters pass behind the lighthouse off the shore. Belle Isle is located at 2 Inselruhe Avenue in Detroit.

    Belanger Park: The 9.5-acre park located at 1 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge is a destination for freighter-watchers to watch ships travel across the Detroit River. The park has a waterfront gazebo, two picnic pavilions, a walking path and a play area for children. Visitors can see freighters from the boardwalk.

For shipwatchers who don’t want to leave their home, the Detroit Historical Society allows viewers to watch freighters pass on the Detroit River using the RiverCam. The camera is mounted on the roof of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and streams 24/7 live on Youtube. https://detroithistorical.org/dossin-great-lakes-museum/detroit-river-watch-webcam

Editor’s Note: Another great way to find out about the boats is to pick up a copy of the annual field guide Know Your Ships: Guide to Boats and Boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Order at knowyourships.com

Detroit Free Press

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

Trans Link Services is no more

Well Folks, I guess it’s on the public domain and is Listed.. Trans Link Services, which operated the cranes to load/unload cargo in Manitowoc, is no more. Their Manitowoc Cranes, other equipment are being sold and shipped out and eventually all equipment will be gone from their dock. Their website and Facebook page have also been taken down. Currently, the property/dock is listed for lease.

Property is Owned By Allie Family(leased site to Trans Link) (whom own almost everything in Manitowoc, real estate, housing, etc… they even own the Broadwind/Konecrane Site, Former Shipyard Peninsula. They’ve gotten grants to fix up that dock due to use for commercial use… now who knows… whatever happens next I hope the best comes out of this to remain an asset to Manitowoc and the folks that call it home.

This will decrease maritime cargo loads and overall port tonnage significantly without an operating cargo handling service. This leaves, only St. Marys Cement, Briess and SS Badger, to be the current commercial terminal operations in the Port of Manitowoc.

[Port of Manitowoc, Wisconsin Boatnerd Group]

Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering in the Soo Oct. 3-6

If you are in the Soo Oct. 3-6, join us for a Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering. On Friday afternoon there will be a special Boatnerd locks/river cruise courtesy of Original Soo Locks Boat Tours (see image). This is a very informal event, just another chance to get together before winter. https://www.facebook.com/events/1037156117917546

Your guide to freighter watching in southeast Michigan: What to know

Detroit, MI – Horsepower, booming horns and big waves off the Detroit River: For freighter watchers, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Freighter watching, where people observe and photograph ships crossing waterways, has a loyal following in Detroit and Windsor, thanks to the Detroit River bordering both cities.

Marty Flore’s love of freighters on open water started when he was a teenager and his dad sailed the Great Lakes. “I’ve even got to go on some freighters with him,” said Flore, 69, of Windsor.

That long ago experience ultimately led Flore to organize in 2019 the Detroit River Freighters, a Facebook group of nearly 3,000 Boatnerds that share photos of ships they find on the Detroit River and meet up when a unique ship comes to town.

The group, which includes members from Canada and Michigan, has become a place where people along the Detroit River can easily come together to share their passion for big ships.

“We were over there in Detroit a few weeks ago. You guys got the riverwalk now and you can see everything from there,” Flore said.

Whether you’re new to freighter watching or just looking for some new tips, here’s what metro Detroit has to offer:

How to track ships

The first step to shipwatching is using a ship traffic website. This ensures you know what ships are close and where to get the best view. To check freighter travel in Michigan, visit the MarineTraffic.com website. This automatic identification system tracks ships globally and tells you where ships are coming from, where they’re going and at what speed.

What to look for

Look for differences between the ships, including the ship’s origin, cargo and speed. Certain vessels are made to transport unique and special cargo. If that’s more than you care to know, skip the details and just watch the ship calmly glide across the water.

There are many areas to spot a freighter on the Detroit River. Here are three popular ones:

    Riverside Park: The 29-acre park on Detroit’s southwest riverfront is equipped with soccer fields, picnic areas and a basketball court. It’s a great location for catching freighters. Riverside Park is located at 3085 W Jefferson Ave.

    William Livingstone Memorial Light/Belle Isle: While visitors of Belle Isle cannot access the inside of William Livingstone Memorial Light, you can see the freighters pass behind the lighthouse off the shore. Belle Isle is located at 2 Inselruhe Avenue in Detroit.

    Belanger Park: The 9.5-acre park located at 1 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge is a destination for freighter-watchers to watch ships travel across the Detroit River. The park has a waterfront gazebo, two picnic pavilions, a walking path and a play area for children. Visitors can see freighters from the boardwalk.

For shipwatchers who don’t want to leave their home, the Detroit Historical Society allows viewers to watch freighters pass on the Detroit River using the RiverCam. The camera is mounted on the roof of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and streams 24/7 live on Youtube. https://detroithistorical.org/dossin-great-lakes-museum/detroit-river-watch-webcam

Editor’s Note: Another great way to find out about the boats is to pick up a copy of the annual field guide Know Your Ships: Guide to Boats and Boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Order at knowyourships.com

Detroit Free Press

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering in the Soo Oct. 3-6

If you are in the Soo Oct. 3-6, join us for a Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering. On Friday afternoon there will be a special Boatnerd locks/river cruise courtesy of Original Soo Locks Boat Tours (see image). This is a very informal event, just another chance to get together before winter. https://www.facebook.com/events/1037156117917546

Your guide to freighter watching in southeast Michigan: What to know

Detroit, MI – Horsepower, booming horns and big waves off the Detroit River: For freighter watchers, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Freighter watching, where people observe and photograph ships crossing waterways, has a loyal following in Detroit and Windsor, thanks to the Detroit River bordering both cities.

Marty Flore’s love of freighters on open water started when he was a teenager and his dad sailed the Great Lakes. “I’ve even got to go on some freighters with him,” said Flore, 69, of Windsor.

That long ago experience ultimately led Flore to organize in 2019 the Detroit River Freighters, a Facebook group of nearly 3,000 Boatnerds that share photos of ships they find on the Detroit River and meet up when a unique ship comes to town.

The group, which includes members from Canada and Michigan, has become a place where people along the Detroit River can easily come together to share their passion for big ships.

“We were over there in Detroit a few weeks ago. You guys got the riverwalk now and you can see everything from there,” Flore said.

Whether you’re new to freighter watching or just looking for some new tips, here’s what metro Detroit has to offer:

How to track ships

The first step to shipwatching is using a ship traffic website. This ensures you know what ships are close and where to get the best view. To check freighter travel in Michigan, visit the MarineTraffic.com website. This automatic identification system tracks ships globally and tells you where ships are coming from, where they’re going and at what speed.

What to look for

Look for differences between the ships, including the ship’s origin, cargo and speed. Certain vessels are made to transport unique and special cargo. If that’s more than you care to know, skip the details and just watch the ship calmly glide across the water.

There are many areas to spot a freighter on the Detroit River. Here are three popular ones:

    Riverside Park: The 29-acre park on Detroit’s southwest riverfront is equipped with soccer fields, picnic areas and a basketball court. It’s a great location for catching freighters. Riverside Park is located at 3085 W Jefferson Ave.

    William Livingstone Memorial Light/Belle Isle: While visitors of Belle Isle cannot access the inside of William Livingstone Memorial Light, you can see the freighters pass behind the lighthouse off the shore. Belle Isle is located at 2 Inselruhe Avenue in Detroit.

    Belanger Park: The 9.5-acre park located at 1 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge is a destination for freighter-watchers to watch ships travel across the Detroit River. The park has a waterfront gazebo, two picnic pavilions, a walking path and a play area for children. Visitors can see freighters from the boardwalk.

For shipwatchers who don’t want to leave their home, the Detroit Historical Society allows viewers to watch freighters pass on the Detroit River using the RiverCam. The camera is mounted on the roof of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and streams 24/7 live on Youtube. https://detroithistorical.org/dossin-great-lakes-museum/detroit-river-watch-webcam

Editor’s Note: Another great way to find out about the boats is to pick up a copy of the annual field guide Know Your Ships: Guide to Boats and Boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Order at knowyourships.com

Detroit Free Press

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

BBC Chartering christens second
LakerMax, BBC Houston

BBC Chartering has christened the second in the series of fifteen 13,000 dwt LakerMax multipurpose triple-deckers, the BBC Houston. The christening was held at the Port of Houston.

Prior to the naming ceremony, the BBC Houston had concluded her maiden voyage from China to New Orleans, Louisiana, delivering a load of air coolers and accessories. The vessel subsequently called several berths in Houston to pick up cargo before proceeding to the Manchester Terminal for the completion cargo and the ceremony. Following the celebrations, the BBC Houston immediately commenced her next voyage, with Kolkata, India being her next destination. She is expected to trade into the Great Lakes in the future.

“Naming the BBC Houston in her namesake port after completion of her maiden voyage felt like more than the right thing to do,” said Tim Kopfensteiner, President and CEO of Houston-based BBC Chartering USA. “It was a real pleasure to finally see this ground-breaking vessel for ourselves, and being able to show it to our customer friends and partners made us really proud.”

“It was an honour to be a part of this celebration and I hope she will serve and protect her crew for many years to come,” said Daniela Pena Kopfensteiner, the godmother of the BBC Houston, who works as a chartering broker at BBC Chartering USA.

Like her sister vessels, the BBC Houston is a multipurpose triple-decker with a lifting capacity of up to 500 metric tons. Her optimized deck layout and forward location of the bridge and accommodation allow for an unobstructed 2,830 sqm of space on the weather deck, with 26,000 cbm and 5,500 sqm covered floor space. In addition, her fuel consumption is less than that of vessels of comparable dimensions. This combination reduces GHG emissions per freight ton carried by up to 30 per cent.

 

Damen to deliver two electric ferries to City of Toronto

Damen has signed a contract with the City of Toronto in Canada

Damen has signed a contract with the City of Toronto in Canada for the delivery of two ferries. The fully electric vessels will provide a major boost to sustainability in the region. They will operate between the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal in downtown Toronto and the Toronto Islands, a major tourist destination, located in a high traffic area close to the shores of Lake Ontario.

Damen is building the Toronto Ferries at its Galati yard in Romania, to a design produced by Quebec-based Concept Naval. The naval architect company has developed the vessel design over the last two years in close cooperation with both the client and with Damen.

The ferries will be 50 metres long with a maximum beam of 13 metres. One of the vessels will transport passengers and vehicles, and the other passengers and bicycles.

“We chose Damen for this new building project due to their outstanding track record,” said a City of Toronto spokesperson. “After a comprehensive RFP process, Damen emerged as the top-ranked supplier, excelling in critical areas such as experience, operational capabilities, engineering expertise and competitive pricing.”

Damen’s Product Director Ferries Henk Grunstra says, “The City of Toronto is taking a big step forward for reduced emissions public transport with these new ferries. Fully electric vessels represent an ideal solution for a short route such as this one, within easy reach of charging infrastructure. We are looking forward to the construction of these ferries and to a successful collaboration with the City of Toronto and Concept Naval.”

Eric Garant, Director General of Concept Naval says, “As a naval architecture firm, Concept Naval is proud to partner with Damen on the innovative 100% electric ferries for the City of Toronto. This project is designed to meet the needs of the City and the many users traveling to the Toronto Islands. Through the combined expertise of Concept Naval and Damen, we aim to provide a sustainable and efficient maritime transport service, at the forefront of technology, contributing to a greener future for the Toronto community.”

The Toronto Ferries will be the 23rd and 24th ferries that Damen has delivered to Canada in the last ten years. Examples include a number of fully electric and hybrid vessels as Damen works towards its goal to become the most sustainable maritime solutions provider.

Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering in the Soo Oct. 3-6

If you are in the Soo Oct. 3-6, join us for a Fall Boatnerd Mini-Gathering. On Friday afternoon there will be a special Boatnerd locks/river cruise courtesy of Original Soo Locks Boat Tours (see image). This is a very informal event, just another chance to get together before winter. https://www.facebook.com/events/1037156117917546

 

Your guide to freighter watching in southeast Michigan: What to know

Detroit, MI – Horsepower, booming horns and big waves off the Detroit River: For freighter watchers, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Freighter watching, where people observe and photograph ships crossing waterways, has a loyal following in Detroit and Windsor, thanks to the Detroit River bordering both cities.

Marty Flore’s love of freighters on open water started when he was a teenager and his dad sailed the Great Lakes. “I’ve even got to go on some freighters with him,” said Flore, 69, of Windsor.

That long ago experience ultimately led Flore to organize in 2019 the Detroit River Freighters, a Facebook group of nearly 3,000 Boatnerds that share photos of ships they find on the Detroit River and meet up when a unique ship comes to town.

The group, which includes members from Canada and Michigan, has become a place where people along the Detroit River can easily come together to share their passion for big ships.

“We were over there in Detroit a few weeks ago. You guys got the riverwalk now and you can see everything from there,” Flore said.

Whether you’re new to freighter watching or just looking for some new tips, here’s what metro Detroit has to offer:

How to track ships

The first step to shipwatching is using a ship traffic website. This ensures you know what ships are close and where to get the best view. To check freighter travel in Michigan, visit the MarineTraffic.com website. This automatic identification system tracks ships globally and tells you where ships are coming from, where they’re going and at what speed.

What to look for

Look for differences between the ships, including the ship’s origin, cargo and speed. Certain vessels are made to transport unique and special cargo. If that’s more than you care to know, skip the details and just watch the ship calmly glide across the water.

There are many areas to spot a freighter on the Detroit River. Here are three popular ones:

    Riverside Park: The 29-acre park on Detroit’s southwest riverfront is equipped with soccer fields, picnic areas and a basketball court. It’s a great location for catching freighters. Riverside Park is located at 3085 W Jefferson Ave.

    William Livingstone Memorial Light/Belle Isle: While visitors of Belle Isle cannot access the inside of William Livingstone Memorial Light, you can see the freighters pass behind the lighthouse off the shore. Belle Isle is located at 2 Inselruhe Avenue in Detroit.

    Belanger Park: The 9.5-acre park located at 1 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge is a destination for freighter-watchers to watch ships travel across the Detroit River. The park has a waterfront gazebo, two picnic pavilions, a walking path and a play area for children. Visitors can see freighters from the boardwalk.

For shipwatchers who don’t want to leave their home, the Detroit Historical Society allows viewers to watch freighters pass on the Detroit River using the RiverCam. The camera is mounted on the roof of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and streams 24/7 live on Youtube. https://detroithistorical.org/dossin-great-lakes-museum/detroit-river-watch-webcam

Editor’s Note: Another great way to find out about the boats is to pick up a copy of the annual field guide Know Your Ships: Guide to Boats and Boatwatching on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Order at knowyourships.com

Detroit Free Press

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

National ballast water standards only apply to new vessels on the Great Lakes

Existing Great Lakes vessels are exempt from installing treatment systems to control the spread of invasive species

By Danielle Kaeding
September 25, 2024

The Environmental Protection Agency finalized ballast water standards on Tuesday that would require new vessels in the Great Lakes to install treatment systems to prevent the spread of invasive species, but the standards will not apply to existing ships.

The regulations are part of a supplemental rule that aimed to bolster standards on dumping ballast water.

In 2018, Congress passed the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act to streamline a patchwork of local, state and federal requirements for the shipping industry. The law requires the EPA and U.S. Coast Guard to develop regulations for mostly larger vessels and fishing boats. In recent years, the agency began crafting standards to exempt lake vessels or “lakers” and examined whether to require treatment for newer boats.

Molly Flanagan, chief operating officer with the Alliance for the Great Lakes, said she’s disappointed the EPA isn’t regulating vessels that operate solely within the Great Lakes.

“We know they can spread invasive species,” Flanagan said. “In order to truly protect the Great Lakes, we need EPA to be regulating every vessel operating in the Great Lakes.”

A 2018 report found lake vessels are moving invasive species from the lower lakes to western Lake Superior. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Superior found several species of tiny zooplankton that hadn’t been previously documented in the lake.

The EPA said it’s not requiring the existing U.S.-flagged fleet to treat ballast water due to the cost of converting vessels and environmental challenges in the lakes, including icing and other factors. The agency said lake conditions can clog filters and reduce the effectiveness of ballast water treatment systems.

State regulators had urged EPA to require standards for existing lakers

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said vessel operators and a treatment system manufacturer haven’t indicated to the state that lake conditions would prevent a reasonable level of treatment most of the time. Wade Strickland, director of the DNR’s Office of Great Waters, told WPR that agency officials believe stronger protections could have been put in place.

“For example, if a vessel is in Lake Ontario, an existing laker, and it picks up an (aquatic invasive species) and then brings it to Lake Michigan, it doesn’t matter if it’s a new or an existing vessel,” Strickland said. “It’s still carrying that and introducing that invasive species to Lake Michigan. That’s our biggest concern.”

Strickland said he feels the EPA’s hands were tied because the 2018 law requires the agency to consider whether treatment is “technologically available and economically achievable.”

The Canadian government had also urged the EPA to regulate lakers built after 2009 to “advance environmental protection and binational consistency” in the Great Lakes, as well as allow older vessels until 2030 to comply with national standards.

As for new lakers, the EPA estimates it would cost those vessels about $2.2 million each year to comply with the new standards.

Great Lakes fleet cites concerns with current treatment systems

The Lake Carriers’ Association represents the U.S.-flagged fleet of 44 lakers operating on the Great Lakes. Jim Weakley, the group’s president, declined an interview Tuesday, saying officials are still reviewing the final rule.

In December, the group submitted comments opposing the agency’s proposal to require installation of treatment systems on new lakers, adding that the EPA underestimated costs. A 2017 report commissioned by the shipping industry estimated it would cost around $639 million to install treatment on existing vessels, as well as $11 million in annual maintenance costs.

“New Laker operators should not be required to expend substantial funds for installing and operating a (ballast water management system) that struggles with operation in the Great Lakes, lacks vendor support, and greatly impacts vessel operations,” the group wrote.

The Lake Carriers’ Association argued that current systems haven’t been proven to reduce invasive species “to any consistent level” in treated ballast water. In its comments, the group said treatment systems are unreliable in the Great Lakes, adding that current technology significantly slows cargo loading and unloading.

The group also disputed that technological advancements in those systems would become available by the time standards would take effect. The EPA said the new standards will not be put in place for up to two years while the Coast Guard develops regulations to enforce them.

No new introduction of invasive species on the Great Lakes since 2006

Since 2006, the U.S. and Canadian governments have required oceangoing vessels to dump water they’ve taken on elsewhere and flush it with saltwater before entering the Great Lakes in a practice known as “swish and spit.” Unlike oceangoing ships, lakers don’t have that option since they operate solely in the Great Lakes.

Lake vessels can span 1,000 feet and discharge more than 16 million gallons of ballast water. In the Great Lakes, at least 188 invasive species had been documented as of last year. It costs an estimated $500 million each year to manage invaders like quagga and zebra mussels that can damage power plants, water systems, boats, and docks. Since 1959, ballast water from ships accounts for up to 70 percent of all introductions.

Even so, researchers note there have been no new introductions of aquatic invasive species through ballast water since 2006.

In 2020, UW-Superior received $5 million to speed up ballast water research and testing of new technologies to prevent the spread of invasive species. The university owns and operates the only land-based testing facility in the Great Lakes region for ballast water treatment systems.

The EPA must review its standards every five years, and the agency said it expects research will support new or updated standards in the future.

Wisconsin Public Radio, © Copyright 2024, Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board.

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.

St. Lawrence Seaway tugboat Robinson Bay looking for new home

MASSENA, NY – The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation is looking for a new home for the historic tugboat Robinson Bay as the corporation seeks to transition its vessel fleet for future operations.

Seaway officials say the delivery of tugboats “Seaway Trident” and “Seaway Guardian” will allow “Robinson Bay” to transition out of the fleet. The vessel, which remains in good operational condition, has served the Seaway for many decades. Seaway officials say it is their goal to ensure “Robinson Bay” continues to provide public value within the region.

As part of the process to find “Robinson Bay” a new home, Seaway officials are seeking proposals from interested parties who have a vision for the tugboat’s future use, whether in an operational capacity, as a training vessel or as part of a museum or historic exhibit.

GLS officials have established a series of criteria that will guide the evaluation process of the proposals.

The primary considerations will be “the alignment of received proposals with the public interest, the intended use of the vessel, the capacity of recipient organization to maintain it, and the vessel’s potential community and historical impact going forward.”

“The Robinson Bay has been an integral part of Great Lakes Seaway maritime history, and the GLS looks forward to seeing how this vessel will continue to serve the region in new and meaningful ways,” Seaway officials said.

Proposals are due on Oct. 1, 2024, with no exceptions, officials said. Proposals should not be longer than five written pages and should include the following information:

     Overview of Proposed Use – A detailed description of how your organization intends to use the Robinson Bay, including any operational, educational, or preservation plans.

      Public and Community Value – Explain how your proposal aligns with the public interest and enhances the Great Lakes/Seaway community.

      Organizational Capacity – Information about your organization’s experience, resources, and long-term sustainability plan for maintaining the vessel.

       Historical and Educational Impact – Describe how your organization will preserve the historical significance of the vessel and how it will be used for educational purposes.

        Feasibility and Timeline – Provide a clear plan for how your organization will acquire, transport, and put the tugboat to use, including a proposed timeline.

Proposals are to be submitted electronically by 3 p.m. on October 1, 2024 to Paul Braden, Director of Lock Operations and Maritime Services.

For more information, visit www.seaway.dot.gov/publications/gls-seeks-proposals-donation-historic-tugboat-robinson-bay

New Lock at the Soo Phase 2 complete

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich.  – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District’s New Lock at the Soo project in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, substantially completed Phase 2 (Upstream Approach Walls) contract on September 17.

“Phase 2 work focused on rehabilitating the upstream approach walls to guide vessels into the New Lock and will allow the vessels to moor on the wall,” New Lock at the Soo Project Engineer Ryan Berkompas said. “The old approach walls in the northern channel were the same age as the Sabin and Davis Locks, over 100 years old.”

The Corps of Engineers awarded the $117 million contract in September 2020 to Kokosing-Alberici, of Westerville, Ohio.

“Minor electrical work is expected to be addressed through the end of October with a goal of financially closing the contract by the end of November,” said Berkompas.

A total of 52 coffer cells were constructed, filled and capped with concrete to make up the eastern portion of the approach walls. A combined 4,800 linear feet of walls were rehabilitated and 62,000 cubic yards of concrete were used.

The New Lock at the Soo project continues to be on track for completion in 2030.

The New Lock at the Soo project is being built in three phases. Phase 1 (Upstream Channel Deepening) was completed in 2022 and Phase 2 (Upstream Approach Walls) is substantially complete as of this summer.

“Phase 3 construction began in late 2022 and given efficient funding and favorable weather is on track to be complete by 2030,” New Lock at the Soo Senior Project Manager Mollie Mahoney said. “The New Lock at the Soo will be constructed in the footprint of the Sabin Lock and will be the same size as the Poe Lock (1,200 feet long, 110 feet wide and 32 feet deep).”

The Phase 3 contractor is demolishing the existing Sabin Lock chamber and beginning bedrock excavation in the footprint of the Sabin Lock. In the Davis Lock they are excavating for the New Pump Well and filling the Davis Lock with excavated material. The contractor is also constructing a new bridge to the New Power Plant and a new utility access structure.

Additional planned activities to occur in 2024 include pump well substructure construction and new concrete monolith (lock chamber wall) construction.

The Soo Locks allow vessels to transit the 21-foot elevation change at the St. Marys Falls Canal. Over 88 percent of commodity tonnage through the Soo Locks is restricted by vessel size to the Poe Lock. The New Lock at the Soo project will construct a second Poe-sized lock.

The Soo Locks are essential to U.S. manufacturing and National Security, the New Lock at the Soo project will provide resiliency for this critical node in the Great Lakes Navigation System. A 2015 Department of Homeland Security study estimates a six-month Poe Lock closure would temporarily reduce the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) by $1.1 trillion, resulting in the loss of 11 million jobs.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit

Marine Mart planned for Oct. 12

The Great Lakes Maritime Institute will host its 43rd annual Marine Mart Oct, 12 in St. Clair Shores, MI. See the flier in the photo gallery for details.