U.S. Brig Niagara volunteers concerned about plans for spring-time ship repairs

ERIE, PA – People passionate about the U.S. Brig Niagara’s future were speaking with urgency Wednesday, wondering what the plans are for spring-time repairs. They said time is of the essence to keep plans for the Niagara on track.

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) has been in charge of the Niagara since the start of the year and while they’ve laid out a plan verbally, anticipation surrounds the execution.

Former volunteers said the clock is ticking to take care of the U.S. Brig Niagara’s needs, and it’s ticking fast. They said any setbacks in getting Erie’s flagship to shipyard for repairs could jeopardize a timeline the PHMC was hoping to hit.

“April is when they should be going to shipyard,” said Kathleen Zawrotniak, volunteer. “When we talk about timelines and requirements, they need to give the coast guard 30 days’ notice in order to get them to shipyard to do the inspections that are required to be done.”

While the PHMC posted a job listing for a shipwright back in February, it’s the only posting, and there’s been no announcement about hiring crew members.

New development corp. hoping to give east Erie neighborhood the boost they need

Towards the end of march, the PHMC announced an agreement with the Flagship Niagara League (FNL) to work with them as associate partners. That release said the FNL will help organize educational programming, but the future of sailing programs is up in the air.

“So every month we delay, is another month behind the Niagara being able to sail,” said Steven Perry, volunteer.

Perry said typically this time of year, the winter tarp is being removed and it’s being rigged up for the season but right now, the ship stays under cover. “There’s a high risk of some of these deficiencies staying out there, and the Niagara not being able to sail again,” said Perry.

With much needed repairs, crew members, inspections and work to be done, these volunteers are hoping for an update.

“All of this has really been unnecessary, it’s been frustrating and maddening, but it could have been avoided if the PHMC had continued to work with the Flagship Niagara League and the crew,” said Ginny Sivak, volunteer. “It could have been three months where work could’ve been done and things could’ve been prepared and the should could’ve been ready.”

The group has petitioned to protect the Niagara and has filed several right-to-know requests that they said shows how important a trip to shipyard is. Without it, they said the Niagara could lose its certificate of operation.

“And then the Niagara couldn’t do anything including be a dockside attraction,” said Zawrotniak.

 

Opening For Chief Engineer – Interlake Logistics

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

 

American Cruise Line Buys
American Queen Voyages’ River Ships

Ocean Voyager, Ocean Navigator Also Sold

American Cruise Lines’ river fleet is set to expand with the addition of four vessels acquired from former cruise line American Queen Voyages.

ACL agreed to purchase the river ships American Duchess, American Countess, American Empress and American Queen plus other assets. American Queen Voyages ceased operations on Feb. 20, 2024. Hornblower Group, the former cruise line’s parent company, filed for bankruptcy soon after.

Sale Prices:

American Queen: $2,150,000

American Empress: $1,600,000

American Countess: $1,600,000

American Duchess: $200,000

Certain other related assets, including, among other things, trademarks associated with American Queen Voyages™ (“AQV”), website domain names associated with AQV, and certain business records: $750,000.

The cruise line confirmed the acquisition in a statement provided to Cruise Critic. “American Cruise Lines is pleased to be the successful bidder for AQV’s river vessels. We look forward to announcing additional details after this portion of the Hornblower Holdings bankruptcy process concludes.”

Once completed, the purchase will bring American Cruise Line’s total fleet up to 25 vessels, which includes river boats, coastal ships and paddlewheelers.

The exact itineraries and entry into service dates for the soon-to-be-acquired ships are still unknown at this time.

Meanwhile, American Queen Voyages founder John Waggoner has emerged as the highest bidder for the former company’s two Great Lakes ships at a bankruptcy auction for AQV’s assets, according to documents viewed by Travel Weekly.

The Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator were purchased for less than $1 million each at the April 1 auction, according to the documents. The two Bahamas-flagged vessels had been on the market since last year for !5 million each when American Queen Voyages announced it would pull out of the Great Lakes region after the season there ended in November.

Cruise Critic, Cruise Industry News, Travel Weekly

 

Coast Guard Issues Bulletin Regarding Lake Erie and Eclipse

CLEVELAND, OH – The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a Marine Safety Information Bulletin for Lake Erie boaters regarding the April 8 total solar eclipse.

“We will be setting up a communications command center, bringing in extra Coast Members, boats and helicopters to focus on safety April 8,” said Lieutenant Phillip Gurtler. “We expect a lot of boat activity on Lake Erie for the eclipse,” Gurtler told Fox 8 News.

According to the Coast Guard boater bulletin, “While offering stunning celestial display, the eclipse may present challenges and potential distractions for those who navigate and operate commercial vessels on the Great Lakes.”

The Coast Guard safety tips are also for recreational boaters primarily on Lake Erie and other parts of the lower Great Lakes.

The most unique safety tip offered by the Coast Guard states: “Be aware that rapid changes in light may affect spatial perception and visibility.”

Boaters are also urged to remember to turn on their navigation lights because darkness will fall fast during the eclipse starting just after 3 p.m. in Cleveland.

Safety forces also say to have someone on the boat be a lookout and have flashlights ready.

National Museum of the Great Lakes reopens May 1

TOLEDO, OH – The National Museum of the Great Lakes will be reopening the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and Museum Tug Ohio for the season to the public beginning Monday, May 1! The museum ships close annually over the winter months and re-open for public tours between May 1 and October 31.

Visitors may climb onboard the 617-foot cargo ship and historic tug to experience what life was like on the lakes in the early 1900s while also visiting the museum galleries. The 11,000 sq. feet museum galleries (open year round) features awe-inspiring stories of our Great Lakes through breathtaking photography, over 300 incredible artifacts, a number of powerful audiovisual displays and 40 hands-on interactive exhibits.

Summer Museum Hours:

Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm
Sunday: 12pm-5pm
*The last time to board the boats is 4 pm.

Ticket Price:
$17.00 (Museum & Ship) / $11.00 (Museum Only) – Adults (18-64);
$16.00 (Museum & Ship) / $10.00 (Museum Only) – Seniors (65+)
$14.00 (Museum & Ship) / $8.00 (Museum Only) – Youth (6-17)
FREE – Children 5 and under, GLHS/NMGL Members

NMGL

Algoma Central receives Corporation of the Year Award

PRESS RELEASE: Algoma is pleased to announce that we were unanimously voted as the recipient of United Way Niagara’s 2023 Corporation of the Year Award. Thank you to United Way Niagara for helping us contribute to our local communities. Community engagement lies at the heart of our values as we commit to being responsible corporate citizens across Canada and here in Niagara.

We are incredibly proud to continue to donate to United Way and take part in their Days of Caring, but it wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and commitment our Bear family displays through their teamwork and passion to uplift and support their communities.

Algoma Central Corporation

Port Huron Museums is the next host for the upcoming Michigan Lighthouse Alliance

PORT HURON, MI – Calling all lighthouse aficionados and history buffs, Port Huron Museums is hosting a lighthouse conference.

Port Huron Museums is the next host for the upcoming Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference. The three-day conference will have people going through workshops, touring the Fort Gratiot Light Station and networking with other people passionate about lighthouses. The Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference will take place from April 21 to April 23 at the Blue Water Convention Center.

The last day to register for the Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference is April 8. People can register for the conference by visiting the event page from the Port Huron Museum’s Facebook. Registration costs $165 and includes all the activities and meals for all three days of the conference.

April 21 will serve as a social evening event for conference attendees at the Port Huron Carnegie Center. This event includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and a one-woman lighthouse show. In addition to the sessions on April 22, attendees will have access to a VIP tour of the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse. April 23 will have a VIP tour of the Huron Lightship as well as its planned sessions.

Port Huron Museum Community Engagement Manager Andrew Kercher said the museum is thrilled to host the Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference.

The theme for the conference is “Be the Beacon: Connecting With and Guiding Your Community.” Kercher said lighthouses across the state have a community centered around them. He said these communities work to preserve, raise awareness, and overall care for these lighthouses. Michigan has approximately 129 lighthouses.

The Michigan Lighthouse Alliance holds a conference every two years. The last one took place in 2022 in Holland.

PORT HURON, MI – Calling all lighthouse aficionados and history buffs, Port Huron Museums is hosting a lighthouse conference.

Port Huron Museums is the next host for the upcoming Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference. The three-day conference will have people going through workshops, touring the Fort Gratiot Light Station and networking with other people passionate about lighthouses. The Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference will take place from April 21 to April 23 at the Blue Water Convention Center.

The last day to register for the Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference is April 8. People can register for the conference by visiting the event page from the Port Huron Museum’s Facebook. Registration costs $165 and includes all the activities and meals for all three days of the conference.

April 21 will serve as a social evening event for conference attendees at the Port Huron Carnegie Center. This event includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and a one-woman lighthouse show. In addition to the sessions on April 22, attendees will have access to a VIP tour of the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse. April 23 will have a VIP tour of the Huron Lightship as well as its planned sessions.

Port Huron Museum Community Engagement Manager Andrew Kercher said the museum is thrilled to host the Michigan Lighthouse Alliance Conference.

The theme for the conference is “Be the Beacon: Connecting With and Guiding Your Community.” Kercher said lighthouses across the state have a community centered around them. He said these communities work to preserve, raise awareness, and overall care for these lighthouses. Michigan has approximately 129 lighthouses.

The Michigan Lighthouse Alliance holds a conference every two years. The last one took place in 2022 in Holland.

Port Huron Timers Herald

 

Opening For Chief Engineer – Interlake Logistics

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

 

Great Lakes Iron Ore Trade Increases 25.5 Percent in March

 

CLEVELAND – Shipments of iron ore on the Great Lakes totaled 1.6 million tons in March, an increase of 25.5 percent compared to 2023. Loadings also topped the month’s 5-year average by 47.5Percent.
Year-to-date the iron ore trade stands at 4.4 million tons, an increase of 16.8 percent compared to a year ago. Iron ore shipments are 31.9 percent above their 5-year average for the first three months 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.

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

 

Lake Superior gale sends vessels to anchor

Due to northeast gale warnings Tuesday evening on Lake Superior, with wind speeds up to 45 knots, the Arthur M. Anderson locked upbound and then went to anchor in Goulais Bay. Tug Wilfred M. Cohen spent some time escorting the Dirk S. VanEnkevort in Whitefish Bay, then accompanied her to the Waiska Bay anchorage. Spruceglen, Frontenac and Herbert C. Jackson were anchored at DeTour. Farther to the west, the Marquette-bound Kaye E. Barker sought shelter at the lower end of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Other vessels, including the downbound Edwin H. Gott and Federal Franklin, were hugging the north shore of Lake Superior, as was the upbound Lee A. Tregurtha.

Opening For Chief Engineer – Interlake Logistics

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

 

First saltie arrives in Duluth, marking start of the 2024 shipping season

DULUTH, MN – The first oceangoing vessel of the 2024 shipping season, the “Barbro G,” sailed into the port of Duluth-Superior just before noon Monday morning, marking the traditional opening of the Great Lakes shipping season in the Twin Ports.

People lined the canal to greet the crew of the 623-foot vessel as it glided under the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge, blaring its horn.

The cargo ship, operated by Sweden’s Brochart KB and captained by Borys Smyrnov of Ukraine, is scheduled to load roughly 22,000 short tons of durum wheat at a grain storage terminal owned by Ceres Global Ag Corp., based in Golden Valley. Its facility in the Twin Ports can hold more than 12 million bushels of grain.

From Duluth — the westernmost port in the Great Lakes — the ship and cargo will sail back through Lake Superior and the other lakes, and then through the St. Lawrence Seaway and across the Atlantic Ocean, bound for Algeria.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

“Despite our recent snowstorm, arrival of the season’s first full Seaway transit is a true sign of spring and a reminder of the economic impact these great ships help deliver to our region,” said Deb DeLuca, executive director of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.

“We’re excited to welcome ‘Barbro G’ and share our Midwestern wheat cargo with the world via the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System,” DeLuca added.

Ships began to emerge from their winter lay-up nearly two weeks ago in Duluth, when the ‘Beau Comeau’ departed with a load of iron ore pellets, bound for the lower Great Lakes. That ship was the first so-called “laker” to leave the Duluth-Superior port. The ‘Barbro G’ is the first “saltie” to arrive.

The Port Authority and Visit Duluth sponsor an annual contest to guess the arrival date of the first saltie. This year’s contest drew nearly 8,000 entries.

The arrival is four days later than last year, when the first oceangoing ship arrived in Duluth/Superior on March 28. That’s the earliest date on record. The latest arrival of the port’s first saltie was May 7, in 2014.

MPR News

 

Davie Shipyards receives first $19M contract to design new icebreakers

The contract should create and maintain approximately 35 jobs per year, according to the federal government.

Author of the article:
La Presse Canadienne

Published Mar 26, 2024

 Davie Shipyards has won a first $19-million contract for the design of six new icebreakers as part of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.

The Department of Public Services and Procurement Canada made the announcement on Tuesday. The contract awarded to the builder from Lévis, on the South Shore of Quebec City, will allow the planning phases of the project to begin.

Davie will notably conduct an initial assessment to establish the requirements for the construction of the vessels. These are to replace the Canadian Coast Guard fleet, which serves the waterways of Atlantic Canada and the St. Lawrence River during the winter, as well as the Arctic during the summer.

The contract announced Tuesday should create and maintain approximately 35 jobs per year, according to the federal government. The timetable for the construction of the ships will be specified later as the preparatory work progresses.

In April 2023, Davie was selected as the third strategic partner of the SNCN to build seven icebreakers and two large ferries with hybrid propulsion in the years to come, for an estimated cost of $8.5 billion.

Opening For Chief Engineer – Interlake Logistics

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

 

Door County Lighthouse Festivals tickets now on sale

The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. has announced that tickets for the 2024 Door County Lighthouse Festivals will go on sale on Monday, April 1, 2024. Tickets for both the spring festival (June 7-9, 2024) and fall festival (Oct. 4-6, 2024) will be available for purchase. New options for 2024 include:

– Reduced price on airplane tours.

– New walking tour of Kewaunee Harbor.

– Opportunity to hike and learn about Cana Island and The Ridges.

– More detailed Plum Island tours.

A portion of each Lighthouse Festival ticket purchase supports the Door County Maritime Museum and Lighthouse Preservation Society. For tickets, tour details and more information, click here:  https://dcmm.org/door-county-lighthouse-festivals

 

Opening For Chief Engineer – Interlake Logistics

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

 

St. Marys River opened to traffic

At around 3:20 p.m. Friday the St. Marys River was reopened to vessel traffic after the American Mariner sailed under her own power to Raber Bay near Lime Island, where she dropped anchor. Inspections are likely underway.

The river was closed Thursday after the American Mariner struck the Mud Lake Junction Light about 1 a.m. and then went aground on the American side of the river, half in and half out of the downbound channel. It was also reported that the vessel was taking on water, and photos showed her with a port list.

Tugs Anglian Lady and WI Scott Purvis remained at anchor near the Mariner Friday night.

Vessels are being cleared the proceed through the locks in the same order as they went to anchor. The traffic jam should be cleared some time Saturday. There has been no word on what caused the incident and there has been no indication of the extent of the damages to the American M

Opening For Chief Engineer – Interlake Logistics

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

In the Wake of the Baltimore Ship-Bridge
Collision, a Local Captain’s Perspective

Editor’s note: The Singapore-flagged, 948-foot container ship, the Dali, crashed into a 1.6-mile bridge in Baltimore, Maryland on March 26, at 1:28 am, causing a portion of the Francis Scott Key, four-lane suspension bridge to collapse. People plunged into the Patapsco River below.. A construction crew was fixing potholes on the bridge and eight people fell 185 feet into the 47-degree-F water. Two people were rescued – one unharmed, one critically injured – two bodies were recovered and four people remained missing. The cause of the collision, still under investigation, is believed to be the ship losing propulsion.

With Door County’s three bridges spanning the canal, and Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding hosting Great Lakes freighters, the collision cuts close to home.

Freelance writer John Mielke wrote a piece for us in the Winter 2023/24 issue of Door County Living magazine entitled, “Steering the Big Boats: Retired Captain Ray Sheldon on piloting boats into winter layup.” We asked him to reach out to the Captain for comment on what the options are when a ship loses power, as had been reported had happened, as of deadline, with the Dali

When large ocean-going or Great Lakes freighters lose power, Ray Sheldon, who served as captain of the Wilfred Sykes and Joseph L. Block for more than 30 years, said the choices may be limited. One option might be trying to safely ground the vessel to keep it from drifting. Another could be the anchor. While dropping an anchor might seem to be a rather simple solution, Sheldon said captains must be aware of what’s below the surface.

“There’s different things you can try,” Sheldon said. “It’s always thinking outside the box about what the surrounding area is like.”

Without knowing the exact circumstances, Sheldon said that other propulsion systems such as bow and stern thrusters – which may not have been in use – would take time to engage. Emergency generators on board would also take time to bring online and may not be designed to power engines and thrusters.

Thanks to the advent of computer simulators with a virtual pilot house and surrounding views of various ports, Great Lakes captains are able to learn correct procedures for emergency situations.

“What do you do? Who do you contact?” Sheldon said. “First of all, it’s always thinking of minimizing damage to the surrounding area and thinking about minimizing damage to the ship.”

All the while, Sheldon said captains must be aware that, “you are reacting to the boat, the boat is not reacting to you.”

Sheldon has heard of other Great Lakes freighters losing power “out in the lake and not near anything dangerous.” Strict maintenance, he said, is designed to prevent that from happening. Sheldon said that monitoring the ship’s performance is an ongoing priority.

“There is always somebody watching monitors for the engines and generators,” he said. “There is always an engineer on watch and the chief engineer is on call 24 hours a day, just like the captain is. And there is always shore-side support staff, such as a fleet engineer.”

In addition to day-to-day maintenance, every five years each Great Lakes freighter goes into dry dock for mechanical, structural and electrical inspection and updates.

“The boat is actually dry-docked in Sturgeon Bay,” Sheldon said. “They pull them in, put them on the blocks and go through everything. They get their stamp of approval.”Sheldon remembers one time where he was forced to reduce power. “The Joe Block has those twin engines,” he said, “I’ve had where one engine wasn’t playing nice with the other engine – they have a governor that controls them. So, I had to go down to one engine.”

By John Mielke , Peninsula Pulse

S.S. Badger planning busy season
The wait is now over for those who want to travel across the pond!

“Their team’s been working really hard to get rolling for their 71st season,” said CEO and president Chamber of Commerce of Ludington Brandy Miller. Last July, the S.S. Badger had to cut their season short because of a failure that left the boat at bay.

“We ended up having a dock failure. Everything is fine with the ship. The counterweight and the port side ended up falling into the lake,” said General Manager of Interlake Maritime Services Sara Spore. “We ended up having to call the season, which was unfortunate,” she adds.

Sport says it was not easy to tell people that their trips were cancelled, but said travelers were very understanding, “Everyone that’s reached out is very positive and excited for this new season for me,” says Spore.

And without travelers coming to Ludington to Wisconsin after the cancelled season, small businesses also felt the halt. “Overall, we fared pretty well in terms of our year over year tourism numbers. We did see quite a little impact,” said Miller.

With the mild winter and lots of hard work, the Badger is now back in business. “To have her back on the water, we’re really excited,” says Miller.

If you see the boat docked right now don’t worry, its due to high winds. But in just a few months, you’ll be able to climb aboard the Badger.  “Right now, we’re only starting on June 17th at the first date, but we plan on opening dates in May as we get closer to the construction wrapping up,” said Spore.

You can already book your spot on the historic ferry. “Besides it being a floating national historical landmark and being an extension of Highway ten, there’s so many things to do on board. You have bingo, a bar, an arcade, there’s food, you can lounge on the decks, there’s the museum, there’s something for everyone,” said Spore.

“I think for our local community, it’s a point of pride, you know, being able to see the boat in the port every day,” said Miller. “They really play a vital role in our local tourism economy and deliver visitors right to our front door daily.”

American Mariner freed; St. Marys River still closed

FRIDAY 3:20 UPDATE: The river has been reopened. Soo Traffic is letting vessels know they may resume their trips and their order of turn. American Mariner going to anchor in the Raber Bay area off Lime Island.

ADDITIONAL UPDATE: At 10:15 a.m. Soo Traffic sent out a radio update saying “No estimated time of reopening.”

FRIDAY 10 a.m. UPDATE: The St. Marys River remained closed Friday morning due to the early Thursday grounding of the American Mariner.  The U.S. and Canadian coast guards report that the vessel struck the Mud Lake Junction Light about 1 a.m. local time and then went aground on the American side of the river, half in and half out of the downbound channel. It was also reported that the vessel was taking on water, however that information was omitted from later reports.

The U.S. Coast Guard and Purvis Marine tugs responded to the incident, and as of 4 pm local time Thursday, the vessel was back in the navigation channel.  It appears that the tugs Anglian Lady and  W.I. Scott Purvis assisted in moving the vessel back into the channel.

Vessel status: As of 10 a.m. Friday, the American Mariner remained at anchor and no timeline has been released for re-opening the river to commercial traffic. Tugs Anglian Lady, WI Scott Purvis and USCG Katmai Bay remain on-scene. Algoma Conveyor and the Edgar B. Speer were in the Nine Mile Anchorage, while the Wilfred Sykes, Whitefish Bay, American Century, Spruceglen and the salty Belasitza were anchored near Drummond Island. Downbound Algoma Strongfield, American Courage and Thunder Bay were stopped at the locks. Sharon M 1 and barge were at the Purvis Dock. John G. Munson and Presque Isle were anchored off Bay Mills. Algoma Equinox and Arthur M. Anderson were rounding Whitefish Point Friday mid-morning. Northern Venture was at Algoma Steel, possibly still unloading or waiting for the river to reopen.

 

Thunder Bay welcomes Federal Franklin as season’s first saltie

Thunder Bay, ON –  Arriving in port Thursday at approximately 11 a.m. was the M/V  Federal Franklin, breaking the record for the earliest international ship in port since the record was previously set on March 30th in 2006.

The Port of Thunder Bay team gathered with local dignitaries to celebrate with another Top Hat Ceremony. Joining them were Canon Ed Swayze from Mission to Seafarers and the team from Thunder Bay Shipping.

Federal Franklin’s Captain Rohit Khosla and Chief Engineer Jyotirmay Santra were celebrated with words of welcome, gifts, and the traditional Top Hat, bestowed by Port Board Chair Pat Bushby. Federal Franklin will be taking on a load of potash at Thunder Bay Terminals that is bound for Brazil.

This event constituted the second Top Hat Ceremony of the week, as Port of Thunder Bay traditionally hosts two ceremonies annually: one to commemorate the first arrival of a domestic vessel and another to celebrate the first international vessel of the season.

Port of Thunder Bay

Wigeon is first saltie at Toronto

TORONTO, ON – A sure sign of spring’s arrival, the first international ship of the 2024 shipping season has arrived at the Port of Toronto. Early Wednesday, PortsToronto “crowned” Captain Sergiy Kobylyashnyy of the M/V Wigeon with an antique top hat – first presented in the spring of 1861– at the annual Top Hat Ceremony. For the past 163 years, PortsToronto has celebrated the official opening of the commercial shipping season by crowning the captain of the first ocean-going vessel or “saltie” to arrive at the port.

The Port of Toronto had another strong year in 2023, moving 2.3 million metric tonnes of bulk and general cargo products and welcoming a record 45 cruise ships and nearly 18,000 visitors to Toronto. The Port of Toronto’s consecutive year of strong performance in marine imports and cruise ship activity highlights the important role the Port plays in Toronto’s economy for tourism, trade and construction.

Overall, 189 cargo vessels visited the Port of Toronto in 2023, delivering a range of bulk, project and general cargo products totalling 2,311,616 million metric tonnes. In addition, 2023 was the second consecutive record year for the Port of Toronto’s Cruise Ship Terminal business. The year 2024 will usher in another strong cruise ship season, with 36 ships expected to call between May and October, bringing nearly 18,000 passengers to Toronto to enjoy all the city has to offer.

Ports Toronto

Opening For Chief Engineer-ILS

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

 

4 pm Update – St Mary’s River Remains Closed due to Marine Casualty

SAULT STE MARIE, MI – (4 pm update) The St. Marys River remains closed due to today’s earlier grounding of the American Mariner.  The US and Canadian Coast Guards are reporting that the vessel struck the Mud Lake Junction Light about 1 am local time and then went aground on the American side of the river, half in and half out of the downbound channel.  It was also reported that the vessel was taking on water.

The US Coast Guard and Purvis Marine responded to the incident, and as of 4 pm local time the vessel is back in the navigation channel.  It appears that the Anglian Lady and the W I Scott Purvis assisted in moving the vessel back into the channel.

The American Mariner appears stopped at this point and no timeline has been released for re-opening the river to commercial traffic.  The Algoma Conveyor and the Edgar B. Speer are anchored north of Neebish Island while the Wilfred Sykes, Whitefish Bay and the salty Belasitza are anchored near Drummond Island.

We will provide more updates when new information becomes available.  (Aerial photos courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard)

St Mary’s River Closed due to Marine Casualty

SAULT STE MARIE, MI – (9 am update) The St. Marys River has been closed due to a marine casualty.  AIS indicates that the American Mariner is stopped, out of the channel.  It may possibly be aground.  It was headed upbound prior to crossing over the downbound channel and stopping.

The Purvis tugs Anglian Lady and W I Scott Purvis are currently downbound north of Neebish Island, possibly responding to the incident. The Katmai Bay and other coast guard vessels are also onsite.

Check back later for more updates as they become available.

Flagship Niagara League Seeks New Landing Spot for Lettie G. Howard

ERIE, PA – The future of the Lettie G. Howard is up in unclear, as the Flagship Niagara League and Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission work towards reaching a formal agreement. The two organizations recently approved a tentative deal, for the FNL to become the associate group for the PHMC.

However, according to the PHMC, there are still several issues that need to be solved, including the future of the Lettie G. Howard.

Flagship Niagara League Executive Director William Sabatini has been tasked with finding a new landing spot for the Lettie G.

“Lettie is the back drop of every sunset picture that’s taken on the bayfront, and we want to keep that,” said Sabatini. “Lettie has found a home in Erie and I think Presque Isle Bay, and Lake Erie and sailing the great Lakes is something that, we deserve Lettie.”

The FNL and PHMC are looking for a new organization to take over the operations of the Lettie G. Both organizations want a partner who will continue the ship’s sailing and educational programs.

“We deserve to have nice things and the Lettie is truly a beautiful ship that we get to enjoy on a regular basis,” said Sabatini. “It’s not just for the people who live here, it’s also for the people who are coming to our community.”

Sabatini also plans to bring back Tall Ships Erie in 2025. “We work very closely with Tall Ships America,”said Sabatini. “Tall Ships America is the organization that brings all the ships in, and I know that Tall Ships America is committed to having Tall Ships Erie back here in Erie in 2025.”

Meanwhile, Sabatini is optimistic that the Lettie G. will remain in Erie. “We want this community to still have the Lettie and Tall Ships Erie,” said Sabatini. “We’re going to find the place. We’re going to make sure that the support is here in this community to keep these programs ongoing.”

A contract between the PHMC and FNL expired last December, and the PHMC has been in charge of the Flagship Niagara ever since.

According to the PHMC, the Brig Niagara and its programming will be its central focus at the Erie Maritime Museum.

The U.S. Brig Niagara’s sailing program is not included in the other programs looking to be transitioned.

Erie Now

Opening For Chief Engineer-ILS

Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc. operates the versatile articulated tug-barge Undaunted-Pere Marquette, which carries diverse cargoes  on the Great Lakes.   Equipped to self-load cargo with an 800C John Deere excavator, long reach material handler, the uniquely outfitted vessel can utilize a clam bucket for flowable material or a five-tine grapple for large rocks and scrap metal.  The tug Undaunted that powers the Pere Marquette 41 is a repowered Navy ATA/Rescue Tug that served in World War II.  The barge Pere Marquette41 is the repurposed carferry City of Midland.

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s (both tug and barge) machinery and propulsion plants.

Responsibilities: 

• Both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of equipment / machinery.
• Ordering needed supplies and maintaining inventories.
• Proper record keeping, documentation and adherence to rules and regulations.
• Working with the Engine Utility to maintain a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
• This is not an all-inclusive list, but an overview of responsibilities.

Qualifications/Certifications Required: 

• Minimum requirement; Valid USCG license, Chief Engineer (Limited) with at least a 2000HP endorsement.
• TWIC Card
• Current Physical / USCG Medical Certificate.
• DOT Drug Screen
• Legally eligible to work in the USA (proof of identity or eligibility required.

The rotation is 28 days on the vessel and 28 days off. After completing a 90-day probationary period, your eligible for medical, dental, vision and a 401k plan.

Applicants please apply thru website:  www.ssbadger.com

Seaway Says Bridges Are Safe

See press release in the photo gallery.