The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026

Ste Marie I sinks in Toronto Harbour

Always sad to see a boat take on water over the winter. Here’s a shot of Toronto cruise boat – STE. MARIE I today in the Toronto harbour. Toronto Drydock will take on the salvage operation, with divers coming in to assess the damage tomorrow morning.
   Captain Jeff Harding will be on the job – stay tuned for more details as the salvage gets underway.

[Janey Anderson-Ship Junkies]

OP/ED:  Arctic Ice is a U.S Shipbuilding Thermostat – Let’s Turn Up the Heat

Robert Kunkel 2-17-2026
   In December of 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard announced the award of two contracts to build up to six Arctic Security Cutter (ASC) icebreakers. The announcement declaring the vessels would be built between the United States and Finland in a major step forward for America’s national security in the Arctic region. The decision process encompassed more than the security of the Arctic passage. It announces a major shift in the U.S. Shipbuilding process. A second round of contracts were approved February 11, 2026 involving Davie in Canada and its recently purchased shipyard facility in Port Arthur, Texas under a similar agreement and process.
   The initial contracts were awarded to Rauma Marine Constructions Oy of Rauma, Finland, and Bollinger Shipyards and are the result of the Federal Administration’s collaboration with Finland. The “foreign” built deliveries will prove to be an historic move in reestablishing U.S. shipbuilding.
   The recent Maritime Action Plan (MAP) describes the “allied” construction partnerships as a “Bridge Strategy.”  ICEPACT already includes plans with Japan and Korea.
   The contract with Rauma Marine Constructions Oy includes up to two ASCs to be built in Finland, with delivery of the first vessel expected in 2028. The contract with Bollinger Shipyards includes up to four ASCs to be built in the United States, with delivery of the first domestically built cutter expected in 2029. Rauma designs roughly 80% of worldwide icebreakers and builds approximately 60% of international breaker tonnage. The collaboration between the two yards is designed to take immediate advantage of Finland’s icebreaker expertise while coordinating the follow-on construction in the United States with a solid supply chain. More importantly it meets 2028 timing to place U.S. breakers in the water and NATO’s “Arctic Sentry” increased military presence of NATO allies in the region.
   The contract process goes beyond National Security and reaches into the current U.S Shipbuilding debate. Where historical U.S. construction begins prior to completing a full production design, this program allows the domestic icebreakers to be built from a fully completed and modeled design package with the capability of U.S. Vessel Construction Managers attending during the construction. A cooperative educational experience and again corrective actions discussed in the MAP. 
   As our domestic industry highlights the urgent need for skilled shipbuilding labor, the ASC program has been supported by the U.S. Department of Labor (ILAB) through the International Workforce Development Initiative to provide sustainable, quality training paths along with integrating Finnish shipbuilding practices utilized during the ASC construction program. 
   The NEXTSEAS program is developing partnership arrangements with Satakunta University of Applied Sciences addressing engineering, robotics, and automation training. Länsirannikon Koulutus Oy WinNova is building shipbuilding skills of welding, machining, electrical, rigging and safety while Massachusetts Maritime Academy is the U.S. curriculum partner translating the Finnish practices to U.S shipbuilding opportunities and aligning the training with Rauma Marine Constructions advanced production practices to suit our industry needs.
   While we debate shipyard capacity, greenfield development and “shipyards of the future”, this forward-thinking decision by the current Administration and the USCG prior to the MAP releases is addressing true shipbuilding problems and gathering experienced partners to expedite our maritime capabilities.
   The Amtech Network has commercial “Ice Class” construction and repair experience along with Ice operations in Alaska, St Petersburg, Russia, the Great Lakes and Nova Scotia. We are prepared to support the ASC program. More importantly it is our opinion the U.S must look to understand the new northern passage market well beyond military involvement. 
Commercial Shipbuilding: Lessons Learned
   So where are the “lessons learned” as it relates to U.S. commercial shipbuilding.
   Worldwide geopolitical events in Venezuela, Suez, and the Panama Canal coupled with a sanctioned Russian ghost fleet have created more than elevated interest in the Northern Sea Route along Russia’s Arctic coast. The larger Northeast Passage and Canada’s Northwest passage also provide seasonal transportation as the far north is warming nearly four times faster than the global average. Continued “ICE” discussions will extend that seasonal market as the route can become more viable when compared to the issues the long-term geopolitical events present. The projected cargo tonnage capable of moving through the Arctic passage has been compared to levels moving through the Suez Canal. 
   This is a market and transportation initiative U.S flag tonnage is not prepared for and it will require commercial and private investment well beyond USCG icebreakers.
   Russia’ latest Ice class LNG vessels are idle due to sanctions. Four of Russia’s eight Nuclear Icebreakers are newly constructed. The U.S flag has nearly ZERO ice class commercial vessels, private ice classed tugs or escort icebreakers.
   The description of “Ice class” or “ice capable” is misunderstood in many applications. It is not only the bow or wind & water scantlings of the side shell. Propulsion, rudders, propellers and shafting capabilities are taken into account to satisfy the selected Ice Class the vessel is trying to meet: Canadian, Norwegian, Finnish or Arctic and their designations; CAS 1-4, Arctic 1- 10, or 1A Super to 1C lowest.
   The decisions process is more confusing than selecting an Italian ICE flavor at a Kiosk during a Brooklyn, New York Italian Festival!   
   As the Administration shipbuilding efforts continue, seasonal ice and transportation in the Great Lakes region will also enter into new discussions. The American Great Lakes Ports Association recently announced a market analysis focused on expanding cargo shipping between the Great Lakes and inland waterways with the Ports of Indiana, Milwaukee, Chicago and Detroit all showing interest in supporting a new supply chain.
   The study will seek to find ways to expand cargo transfers while assessing infrastructure needs and ways to improve terminal operations. As the Amtech, Vega Reederei and Conoship partnership prepares to announce the construction of a U.S. East Coast and Great Lakes series of microcontainer feeders, the issue of seasonal ice in the lakes will becomes part of a market analysis. The successful transshipment of containers cannot sit out a four-month winter idle period. The development of the new market will require icebreaker escort support. Finnish technology can also assist in defining this effort and supporting current existing US-flag tugboat tonnage.
   ILS Ship Design & Engineering in Helsinki, Finland has developed the ILS Removable icebreaker bow concept – DIBB.  The removable bow icebreaker is based upon utilizing an existing tug with lower power and size than a conventional icebreaker. The tug is connected it to a notched removable ice breaking bow with additional port and starboard propulsion system adding the additional power to push and break ice. When the bow is not in use, the existing tug in the notch can return to primary operations.
   The “system” is similar to our U.S. ATB designs using Intercon pins and ladders (https://intercon.com/tug-barge-couplers-2/) to mate tug and barge. Alfons Håkans (We Make It Happen – Alfons Håkans) currently operates one of the units in the Gulf of Finland and the Port of HaminaKotka (Hamina, Finland). Its Tug Calypso is used for general ship assist activity when not attached to the ice breaking bow and providing ice breaking services. Larger units have been designed capable of breaking 1.5-meter-thick ice at Super 1A levels.  Intercon management attended the Alfons Håkans operation and we thank them for the photos, updates, and discussions. These commercial efforts strengthen our entrance into the market as the Arctic opens up.
   The investment savings are obvious when comparing the cost of commercial new construction ice breaking tonnage. More importantly it illustrates not only a new commercial collaboration with an experienced designer, builder and operator but also another example of opportunities that can exist under the MAP “Bridge Strategy”markets and opportunities that include U.S. smaller second tier shipyards that continue to build and serve the U.S domestic shipbuilding industry.  We may be still debating global warming, alternative fuels and energy. Until those issues are solved these examples look like “ICE, ICE Baby.”
[See photos in gallery below]

Now available for application! “Mate Tug Class 1” position for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers onboard the tug Demolen

   The job announcement is now open, please find the announcement information below.
   Click on the link below in this e-mail to apply. Also can be found at “usajobs.gov” website.  “DHA” for the general public and “Merit” for current or former federal employees.
   Please see the job announcement links below for XH-5782-11 Mate, Tug, Class 1 position within the Detroit District.  These announcements will be used to fill the vacancy at the Detroit Project Office on the Tug DEMOLEN.
               DUTIES:             

• Ensures vessel is prepared to sail at the scheduled time, is seaworthy, properly crewed and fitted to accomplished assigned mission.
• Serves as timekeeper for the crew members and assists the Master to evaluate the crew’s performance.
• Navigates the vessel during assigned watch.
• Observes weather conditions, forecasts, barometer, wind velocity, and other weather indicators to determine suitableness for operation.
• Works from plans or field notes showing location and extent of work to be performed in removing shoals from channel. Locates area and makes necessary arrangement for accomplishing work.
• Enforces safety regulations and instructs crew both on safety work procedures and work practices peculiar to floating plant.
• Assigns port watches for safety and security of vessel and creates the schedule and insures equitable assignment of these duties to employees.
• Sets port watch schedule for safety and security of vessel. Ensures equitable assignment/rotation of workers.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Conditions of employment
• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not including auxiliary sail of less than 500 gross register tons (GRT)upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters (or greater/equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Master of towing vessels upon Great Lakes and inland waters (or equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Radar Observer (Unlimited)
• This position is covered by the Civilian Drug Abuse Testing Program. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 5019-R. Individual must pass drug test.
• This position requires a pre-employment physical exam AND annual physical due to the physical requirement of the position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver’s license.
• This position requires incumbent to obtain and maintain a First Aid Certification
• This position requires incumbent to wear safety equipment and/or use personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed.
• This position requires Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) up to 75% of duty time.
• Shift work is required during open-water (lake) towing operations.

OVERVIEW:
Accepting applications
Open & closing dates 02/17/2026 to 03/03/2026
Salary $47.96 to – $55.94 per day
Pay scale & grade XH 11
Location 001 vacancies in the following location: Detroit, MI
Remote job: No
Telework eligible: No
Travel Required: 75% or less – You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
Appointment type: Permanent
Work schedule: Full-time – Seasonal
Service: Competitive
Promotion potential: None
Job family (Series): 5782 Ship Operating
Supervisory status: No
Security clearance: Not Required
Drug test: Yes
Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Trust determination process: Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure: No
Bargaining unit status: Yes
Merit:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857902000

DHA:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857899800

Memories of sailing for the Ford fleet featured at GLMI dinner April 12

   The Great Lakes Maritime Institute presents its annual dinner at 2 p.m. April 12 at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit. Featured speaker will be Greg Rudnick, who will talk about his time sailing on the Ford Motor Co. vessels Henry Ford II and Benson Ford. See the flyer posted in the gallery for details. Reservations required by March 31.
[You can see the billing for this in the gallery below]

Chance to win a trip on a lakes freighter

Port and vessel activity for Sunday February 22.  Port reports done by Tom Geiger unless otherwise noted. Please send future port reports and pictures to news@boatnerd.net
You can Now visit Matt Miner’s Saltie page at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/foreign-vessels-on-the-lakes-2024
The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at;  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026/

PORT REPORT 2/23/2026

BECANCOUR, CANADA                             [CABEC]
2/22/2026  RF Stella-ARRIVES-12:25 PM
DUE:
Harbour Express-DUE-3/3/2026-7:55 AM
Rudolf-DUE-2/21/2026-7:12 AM
Bulk Destiney-DUE-3/7/2026-8:43 PM

NANTICOKE, ONTARIO                             [CANAN]-Bill Kloss
Algoberta and Algonova are loading at Imperial Oil. Algocanada is due in.
DUE:
Algocanada-DUE-2/23/2026-5:18 AM

CLEVELAND, OHIO                                      [USCLE]-Bill Kloss
 Mark W. Barker departed layup in Detroit and arrived at the Bulk Terminal to load shuttles for Cliffs. 

MONROE, MICHIGAN                                 [USMOI]-Bill Kloss
New York/Double Skin 509A is at Michigan Paving.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN                                  [USDET]
2/22/2026  Mark W Barker-DEPARTS-11:37 AM-For-Cleveland, Ohio
DUE:
Algoma Niagara-DUE-2/23/2026-12:05 AM

WINDSOR, CANADA                                   [CAWND]
DUE:
Frontenac-DUE-2/23/2026-5:00 PM

GODERICH, CANADA                                 [CAGOH]
2/22/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-ARRIVES-6:13 AM
2/22/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-DEPARTS-6:45 AM-For-Goderich, Canada [Anchor]
2/22/2026  Algoma Innovator-DEPARTS-7:24 AM-For-Goderich, Canada
2/22/2026  Algoma Niagara-ARRIVES-10:25 AM
2/22/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-ARRIVES-11:37 AM
2/22/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-DEPARTS-12:52 PM-For-Goderich, Canada [Anchor]
2/22/2026  Algoma Intrepid-ARRIVES-1:16 PM
DUE:
Oakglen-DUE-3/1/2026-11:00 AM

SARNIA,CANADA                                          [CASNI]
2/21/2026  Algoma Intrepid-ARRIVES-8:23 PM
2/22/2026  Algoma Intrepid-DEPARTS-1:27 AM-For-Goderich, Canada [Anchor]
2/22/2026  Algocanada-DEPARTS-9:29 AM-For-Nanticoke, Canada

ROGERS CITY                                                 [USRCY]
DUE:
Baltic-DUE-2/22/2026-8:22 AM

CALCITE, MICHIGAN                                  [USMI3]
2/22/2026  Baltic-ARRIVES-8:01 AM

CHEBOYGAN, MICHIGAN                        [USCHG]
2/22/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-10:06 AM

1843
1843:  On 23 February 1843, SANDUSKY (wooden side-wheeler, 148 foot, 377 tons, built in 1834, at Sandusky, Ohio) caught fire at her dock on Buffalo Creek in Buffalo, New York and burned to the hull. She was recovered, rebuilt as a 3-masted bark and lasted another two years.

1922
1922:   ANNA C MINCH [Built-1903 US-107846 by American Shipbuilding Co. at Cleveland, Ohio, Renamed: ANNA C MINCH-1926 C-153113] Suffered gale damages at Erie, PA, on December 18, 1921 and ice damage at same place on February 23, 1922

1942
1942:   GLENLINNIE [Built-1923 in Great Britain Other names: LENOX-1927, and LENNOX-1927 C-145525] As the LENNOX was Torpedoed and sunk, February 23, 1942, in position 09.15N x 58.30W, on Caribbean Sea, with cargo of bauxite.

2-23-1975
JAMES A HANNAH [Built-1945 as LT-0820 US-Army by Marietta Manufacturing Co. at Point Pleasant, West Virginia RENAMED: MUSKEGON-1965 US-298179, and JAMES A HANNAH-1971 US-29817]  As JAMES A. HANNAH: Had towline snap while towing 280-foot oil barge, Lake Michigan, February 23, 1975. Blown onto breakwater at Milwaukee, off South Shore Yacht Club, in 60 m.p.h. gale winds. Estimated 6,000 gallons of oil leaked into lake.

1943
1943:  The e.) U.S.S. ROTARY (YO-148) was commissioned on February 23, 1943, at Sullivan’s Dry Dock & Repair Co., Brooklyn, New York and assigned duty with the Service Force, Third Naval District, Atlantic Fleet. The tanker was built in 1915 at Chatham, England by Chatham Dock Yard Ltd. as a.) H.M.S. SERVITOR. Renamed b.) PULOE BRANI in 1922, brought to the Lakes and renamed c.) B.B. MC COLL in 1927, and d.) A.J. PATMORE in 1929. After her U.S. Naval Service ROTARY reverted to her previous name f.) A.J. PATMORE and then g.) PEGGY REINAUER in 1946. Renamed h.) DETROIT early in 1955, she traded on the lakes until 1975. Her partially dismantled hull was abandoned in 1985 in the back waters of Lake Calumet.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series.

The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026

Now available for application! “Mate Tug Class 1” position for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers onboard the tug Demolen

   The job announcement is now open, please find the announcement information below.
   Click on the link below in this e-mail to apply. Also can be found at “usajobs.gov” website.  “DHA” for the general public and “Merit” for current or former federal employees.
   Please see the job announcement links below for XH-5782-11 Mate, Tug, Class 1 position within the Detroit District.  These announcements will be used to fill the vacancy at the Detroit Project Office on the Tug DEMOLEN.
               DUTIES:             

• Ensures vessel is prepared to sail at the scheduled time, is seaworthy, properly crewed and fitted to accomplished assigned mission.
• Serves as timekeeper for the crew members and assists the Master to evaluate the crew’s performance.
• Navigates the vessel during assigned watch.
• Observes weather conditions, forecasts, barometer, wind velocity, and other weather indicators to determine suitableness for operation.
• Works from plans or field notes showing location and extent of work to be performed in removing shoals from channel. Locates area and makes necessary arrangement for accomplishing work.
• Enforces safety regulations and instructs crew both on safety work procedures and work practices peculiar to floating plant.
• Assigns port watches for safety and security of vessel and creates the schedule and insures equitable assignment of these duties to employees.
• Sets port watch schedule for safety and security of vessel. Ensures equitable assignment/rotation of workers.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Conditions of employment
• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not including auxiliary sail of less than 500 gross register tons (GRT)upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters (or greater/equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Master of towing vessels upon Great Lakes and inland waters (or equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Radar Observer (Unlimited)
• This position is covered by the Civilian Drug Abuse Testing Program. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 5019-R. Individual must pass drug test.
• This position requires a pre-employment physical exam AND annual physical due to the physical requirement of the position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver’s license.
• This position requires incumbent to obtain and maintain a First Aid Certification
• This position requires incumbent to wear safety equipment and/or use personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed.
• This position requires Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) up to 75% of duty time.
• Shift work is required during open-water (lake) towing operations.

OVERVIEW:
Accepting applications
Open & closing dates 02/17/2026 to 03/03/2026
Salary $47.96 to – $55.94 per day
Pay scale & grade XH 11
Location 001 vacancies in the following location: Detroit, MI
Remote job: No
Telework eligible: No
Travel Required: 75% or less – You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
Appointment type: Permanent
Work schedule: Full-time – Seasonal
Service: Competitive
Promotion potential: None
Job family (Series): 5782 Ship Operating
Supervisory status: No
Security clearance: Not Required
Drug test: Yes
Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Trust determination process: Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure: No
Bargaining unit status: Yes
Merit:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857902000

DHA:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857899800

Memories of sailing for the Ford fleet featured at GLMI dinner April 12

   The Great Lakes Maritime Institute presents its annual dinner at 2 p.m. April 12 at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit. Featured speaker will be Greg Rudnick, who will talk about his time sailing on the Ford Motor Co. vessels Henry Ford II and Benson Ford. See the flyer posted in the gallery for details. Reservations required by March 31.
[You can see the billing for this in the gallery below]

Chance to win a trip on a lakes freighter

Port and vessel activity for Saturday February 21.  Port reports done by Tom Geiger unless otherwise noted. Please send future port reports and pictures to news@boatnerd.net
You can Now visit Matt Miner’s Saltie page at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/foreign-vessels-on-the-lakes-2024
The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at;  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026/

PORT REPORT 2/22/2026

BECANCOUR, CANADA                             [CABEC]
DUE:
Federal Alster-DUE-2/21/2026-11:22 PM
RF Stella-DUE-2/23/2026-6:00 AM
Harbour Express-DUE-3/2/2026-7:58 PM
Bulk Destiny-DUE-3/3/2026-9:08 PM

NANTICOKE, ONTARIO                             [CANAN]-Bill Kloss
Algoberta and Algonova arrived at Imperial Oil.
DUE:
Algocanada-DUE-2/22/2026-10:26 AM

WINDSOR, CANADA                                   [CAWND]
DUE:
Frontenac-DUE-2/23/2026-5:00 PM

GODERICH, CANADA                                 [CAGOH]
2/21/2026  CCGS Judy La Marsh-ARRIVES-11:02 AM
2/21/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-DEPARTS-12:54 PM-For-Goderich, Canada [Anchor]
2/21/2026  Algoma Innovator-ARRIVES-1:13 PM
DUE:
Algoma Intrepid-DUE-2/22/2026-3:56 AM
Algoma Niagara-DUE-2/22/2026-2:35 AM
CCGS Judy LaMarsh-DUE-2/22/2026-1:33 AM
Oakglen-DUE-3/1/2026-11:00 AM

ROGERS CITY                                                 [USRCY]
DUE:
Baltic-DUE-2/21/2026-6:44 AM

CALCITE, MICHIGAN                                  [USMI3]
2/21/2026  Kimberly Joy-ARRIVES-7:36 AM

CHEBOYGAN, MICHIGAN                        [USCHG]
2/21/2026  Kimberly Joy-DEPARTS-4:04 AM-For-Calcite, MichiganSAULT STE. MARIE                                        [CASSM]
2/20/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-3:18 PM
2/21/2026  USCG Mackinaw-DEPARTS-5:45 PM-For-Sault Ste Marie, Canada
2/21/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-6:14 PM
2/21/2026  USCG Mackinaw-DEPARTS-6:24 PM-For-Hugh Town

SOUTH CHICAGO-CALUMET HARBOR, ILLINOIS       [USOUS]
2/20/2026  Frontenac-DEPARTS-10:43 PM-For-Windsor, Canada
2/21/2026  Karen Andrie-ARRIVES-3:48 AM

INDIANA HARBOR-INDIANA                  [USECH]
2/21/2026  Karen Andrie-DEPARTS-3:20 AM-For-Calumet Harbor, Illinois

1878 
1878:   ROBERT HOLLAND [Built 1872 US-11043 by John J Hill at Marine City, Michigan Renamed: ROBERT HOLLAND 1882 US-110043 and NORTHERN QUEEN 1878 Canada] On 22 February 1878, the 156 foot wooden freighter ROBERT HOLLAND was purchased by Beatty & Co. of Sarnia for $20

1894
1894:   WILLIAM R CROWELL [Built-1875 US-80531 by Gibson & Osman at Buffalo, New York] Sprung a leak and foundered December 3, 1893, 6 miles from shore off Michigan City, IN, Lake Michigan, in fifty feet of water, while on way to assist stranded propeller F.W. WHEELER. Crew rescued by tug T.T. MORFORD; no lives lost. Final enrollment surrendered at Chicago, IL, on February 22, 1894.

1920
1920:  On 22 February 1920, the Goodrich Line’s ALABAMA (steel propeller passenger/package freight steamer, 272 foot, 2,626 gross tons, built in 1909, at Manitowoc, Wisconsin) ran aground on a concrete obstruction which was the foundation of the old water-intake crib in Lake Michigan off Belmont Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. The SIDNEY O. NEFF (wooden package freighter, 149 foot, 346 gross tons, built in 1890, at Manitowoc, Wisconsin) took off the ALABAMA’s cargo and then harbor tugs pulled the ALABAMA free. Repairs to her hull took the rest of the winter and she didn’t return to service until May 1920.

1925
1925:  February 22, 1925 – The ANN ARBOR NO 7 made her maiden voyage.

1928
1928:   HAMILTON Built-1847  C-103337 As MAGNET by Currie, Neil & James at Niagara, Ontario. Renamed: HAMILTON-1895 C-103337] As HAMILTON Register closed on February 22, 1928. Hull sold to Louis Goodchild, of Amherstburg, Ontario, and towed there by two gas boats. Laid in old Canada Southern Railway slip at Texas Dock; partly filled in and sank, breaking in two. Hull still there in 1958.

1942
1942:  The Great Lakes canal-sized bulk carrier GEORGE L. TORIAN of the Upper Lakes and St. Lawrence Transportation Co. had been requisitioned for saltwater service in the bauxite trade in 1941. The ship was torpedoed by U-129 off the coast of British Guiana in position 09.13 N / 59.04 W and sank quickly. Most of the crew were killed.

1942:   Lake Fitch [Built-1919 by Globe Shipbuilding, Superior US-219112 Other names: NORLAVORE-1941 and QUANTICO-1933]  Departed Baltimore, MD, on February 22, 1942, bound for Puerto la Cruz. Presumably torpedoed by German submarine about 300 miles east of Cape Hatteras, NC, on about February 26, 1942; lost with all hands.

1945
1945:  H.M.C.S. TRENTONIAN was a Flower Class naval corvette that had been built by the Kingston Shipbuilding Company and completed at Kingston, Ontario, on December 1, 1943. It was torpedoed and sunk by U-1004 near Falmouth, England, and went down stern first. Six on board, one officer and 5 enlisted crew members, were lost.

2019
2019:  Algoma Tankers announced on February 22, 2019 it had purchased 2010-built product tanker that would become the eighth ship in Algoma’s Great Lakes based product tanker fleet. The 16,512 dwt vessel was re-named the ALGOTERRA as part of its transition to Algoma Tankers ownership.

Data from: Skip Gillham, Max Hanley, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series.

The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026

Portion of former CNR ore dock trestle to be demolished

THUNDER BAY — Work starts this week on the demolition of a section of the former CNR iron ore dock trestle on Thunder Bay’s waterfront.
   Midcontinent Terminal, the local company that owns the property, says removing about 400 feet of the 1200-foot-long trestle will enable it to expand its capacity for handling project cargo including industrial plant components, steel products and other oversized shipments.
   “The trestle that’s sitting on the dock was designed for a very specific purpose, and that was for loading iron ore,” project manager Matej Rodela said Tuesday. “That structure basically acts as a wall, so we cannot receive big cargo ships. Taking it down will allow us to get these ships in and unload their cargo.”
   The decision to remove part of the 83-feet-high trestle was made after the terminal successfully conducted a series of vessel transloading operations that demonstrated strong market demand and confirmed the terminal’s readiness for expanded marine activity, Rodela said.
   Midcontinent Terminal, which also operates on the site of the former Northern Wood Preservers mill, expects to add about 10 new jobs to the existing workforce of approximately 20 to 25.
   “We are growing,” Rodela said. “We have about 400 to 500 railway cars of traffic a year, and now we’re looking to add vessels.”
   At present, the terminal handles multiple products such as chemicals for local industries and area mines, among other things.
   Rodela said the business has a good relationship with the Port of Thunder Bay, which operates Keefer Terminal.
   “We think of ourselves as added capacity to the port, and that this will just increase overall inbound cargo and production and economic benefits for the local economy.”
   The City of Thunder Bay’s Heritage Advisory Committee has listed the ore dock as a heritage property but has not formally designated it.
   The facility was built at the end of World War Two to transfer ore from the Steep Rock Mine at Atikokan from railway cars to ships that would carry the ore to steel mills in the east.

 [TBnewswatch]

Great Lakes Iron Ore Trade a Near Match to January 2025

Iron ore shipments on the Great Lakes totaled 2 million tons in January, a near match to 2025. Loadings were below the month’s 5-year average by 14.5 percent.
   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. 
   Watch a recent Maritime Reporter TV interview with LCA’s Eric Peace to hear about latest Great Lakes shipping traffic and cargo trends:  [Click link to see and hear interview]   https://www.marinelink.com/videos/video/from-markets-to-mother-nature-lake-carriers-challenged-104198

Hanwha Ocean inks MOU with Ontario Shipyards

Written by Nick Blenkey

   Hanwha Ocean and Ontario Shipyards have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at accelerating the return of large-scale shipbuilding in Ontario and to strengthen Canada’s ability to deliver future naval programs.
   In parallel, Hanwha Ocean, Ontario Shipyards and Mohawk College have entered into a Letter of Intent (LOI) to establish an embedded shipbuilding training hub at Ontario Shipyards’ Hamilton, Ontario, facility, aligned with the sector’s long-term workforce requirements.
   “Our objective is not simply to transfer expertise, but to embed Hanwha Ocean’s advanced shipbuilding processes and operational know-how directly into Ontario Shipyard operations,” said Kim Hee-cheul, president and CEO, Hanwha Ocean. “By doing so, we are strengthening Canada’s domestic industrial base, supporting high-quality Canadian jobs, and ensuring long-term workforce readiness. This partnership reflects our commitment to building sustainable submarine construction and sustainment capacity in Canada, fully aligned with the objectives of the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project.”
   “At its core, this partnership is about people,” said Shaun Padulo, president and CEO, Ontario Shipyards. “With Hanwha Ocean working alongside our teams and Mohawk College training the next generation in a live shipyard, we are building the Canadian workforce that will deliver and sustain Canadian ships for decades to come. That is how sovereign capacity is created. This partnership activates Ontario’s industrial strength in direct support of the National Shipbuilding Strategy and the future of the Royal Canadian Navy and creates meaningful long-term careers for Canadians.”
   “Mohawk College believes in the strength and power of industry-led learning,” said Paul Armstrong, president, Mohawk College. “By working alongside Hanwha Ocean and Ontario Shipyards, we are creating an environment where expertise, innovation, and education come together to support workforce development. This collaboration will strengthen advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding capability in Canada and help build the skilled talent required for long-term success in a rapidly evolving marine sector.”
   Together, the agreements establish a coordinated industrial and workforce development framework intended to position Ontario as a scalable centre of excellence for defense-related shipbuilding and advanced marine manufacturing in the Great Lakes region.

Memorandum of Understanding
   Under the bilateral MOU, Hanwha Ocean will provide structured technical and operational support to Ontario Shipyards to strengthen production readiness and shipyard performance.

The cooperation will focus on:
design and engineering
production planning and construction sequencing
quality management systems  advanced shipyard processes and smart-yard best practices
   These measures are intended to accelerate the re-establishment of large-scale vessel construction capability in Ontario, enhance production efficiency, and support long-term naval industrial readiness.
   As part of this cooperation, Hanwha Ocean will provide support to the design and construction for a training and recruitment vessel that Ontario Shipyards will begin building in 2026, serving as a practical demonstration of next-generation shipbuilding capability in the province.
   Subject to the award of the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), Hanwha Ocean intends to pursue further strategic investment in Ontario, including the establishment of a dedicated shipbuilding training centre and expanded industrial cooperation with Ontario-based suppliers.

Letter of Intent
   The trilateral LOI between Hanwha Ocean, Ontario Shipyards and Mohawk College establishes a structured pathway to address persistent shortages in skilled trades and technical professionals critical to shipbuilding.
The collaboration will focus on:
   establishing an integrated training hub embedded within Ontario Shipyards’ Hamilton Shipyard
developing industry-led credentials and specialized shipbuilding certifications
supporting apprenticeship and co-op pathways aligned with production requirements
exploring applied research in automation, robotics ad digital manufacturing

Under this framework:
   Mohawk College will lead academic programming across skilled trades and technology disciplines including welding, electrical, millwright, marine mechanics, robotics, logistics, and non-destructive evaluation..
   Ontario Shipyards will provide facilities and direct workforce integration aligned with its production and expansion plans.
   Hanwha Ocean will contribute technical advisory support and access to its global industrial networks to align training with international standards and operational best practices.
Strengthening Ontario’s role in Canada’s marine defense ecosystem
   By integrating industrial modernization with structured workforce development, the partnership aligns with Ontario’s advanced manufacturing strategy and Canada’s broader objective to strengthen sovereign defence industrial capability.
The coordinated framework is intended to:
generate and sustain high-quality skilled employment
expand Ontario-based marine and defence supply chains
increase participation of regional small and medium-sized enterprises
strengthen Canada’s domestic capacity to construct, maintain and sustain complex naval platforms
   Over the long term, the initiative is designed to position the Golden Horseshoe and the broader Great Lakes region as a nationally significant hub for advanced marine manufacturing and shipbuilding.

[Marinelog]

MORE WORK IS COMING TO THE LOCAL SHIPYARD

By Melissa Ebsch
   USNI News is reporting Shipyards here and in Mississippi will build the first new naval vessels under the Trump administration’s push to revamp military shipbuilding.
   Fincantieri Marinette Marine will join Bollinger Shipyards in constructing the Marine Corps’ Landing Ship Medium.
   Naval Sea Systems Command is asking for proposals for a vessel construction manager that will run the shipbuilding program that’s key to the Marine Corps’ island-hopping strategy in the Pacific.
   According to a Navy News Release “For initial production, the Navy will direct the to-be-named Vessel Construction Manager to manage LSM construction at two shipyards.
   “Bollinger Shipyards was awarded a contract to support Landing Ship Medium long lead time procurement and lead ship engineering design activities in September 2025.  The Navy says Fincantieri will build four ships,” “The VCM will then have the ability to decide the best strategy for awarding the remaining three ships authorized under the base contract.”
   The McClung-class Landing Ship Mediums will be based off of Dutch shipbuilder Damen’s LST-100 design.
   The Navy last year cancelled the Constellation-class frigate program that had been underway at Fincantieri Marinette Marine since 2020. The terms of the cancellation would allow the local shipyard to continue building the first two ships in the class already under construction but cancelled the next four.  Now, with the Landing Ship Medium program, Marinette has work to fill the void of those four cancelled frigates.  [Go To gallery below for diagram of landing craft they will be building]

“DoorDash but for ships”: Detroit’s mail service for ships is the same since 1874

By Molly Anderson, April Van Buren
   If you’ve driven by Lake St. Clair recently, you likely noticed the icy sheet covering its surface, stretching toward Canada. Perhaps you noticed a freighter or two, creeping along the horizon.
   These freighters cruise up and down the Detroit River, returning from or headed to the Great Lakes. But what happens when those freighters need something from the mainland? It turns out these boats utilize a unique mail service in Detroit that has been operating for more than 150 years.
   The service is offered by the J.W. Westcott Company, which delivers goods from the port of Detroit to the passing freighters via a bucket tied to a rope. Captain J.W. Westcott founded the operation in 1874.
   A new exhibit at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum offers a thorough glimpse into the history of the company and Captain Westcott’s integral role in Detroit’s maritime industry. Westcott himself grew up in a family that had ties to the Great Lakes and its maritime concerns — and at just 20 years old, he became its youngest captain.
   “He learns the ins and outs and a lot of the headaches involved with piloting, in his case, steamships on the Great Lakes. And so there comes a time when he decides to put one of his ideas into practice, and that’s taking orders to ships as they’re moving up and down the river” said Bill Pringle, curator for the J.W. Westcott Company exhibit currently at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle.
   Westcott devised a plan to meet boats passing through the port with any mail intended for them. Someone onboard would simply lower a bucket to Westcott who would place the mail into the pail to be hauled up. In the same way, outgoing mail reports could be transferred from the boat to Westcott.
   His system was an important part of ensuring shipments weren’t slowed down. Unpredictable weather conditions and broken equipment could cause delays in scheduled shipments, and boats depended on telegrams from Lake Erie ports to Detroit briefing them on important information that might hinder their ability to do business.
   “These boats would stop in Detroit and anchor and send someone on shore to get the orders from the telegraph office. And, obviously, this was a pretty colossal break in their timeline,” explained Pringle.
   Time was money in shipping, and Captain Westcott was intent on eradicating this disruption in the ships’ journeys.
   “He partners with these shipping companies to gather the orders for where they’re going to be docking ahead of time,” according to Pringle. From there, he rowed himself out into the river to meet the passing steamships, threw them a rope, did his best to stay inside the boat as it got jerked up out of the water, and deposited telegrams into a pail which they hauled onboard.
   For a while, it was a one-man show.
   “In those early days, it was Captain Westcott by himself, 24/7,” Pringle said. “River traffic was day and night, so he basically only got time to rest at the dock in the rowboat where he napped in between needing to go out and take out orders to these boats.”
   Eventually, he hired other people to help run the mail business. The business would eventually acquire a mail contract, but not until the 1940s when Westcott became the sole agent of mail delivery on the Detroit River.
   As time went on and technology advanced, some of the J.W. Westcott Company’s communication services were not as imperative as they once were. But the company has remained a steadfast agent in adapting services like Amazon and DoorDash for passing sailors.
   “They advertise, ‘Hey, if your ship is passing by Detroit and you really want a Detroit style pizza or coney dogs, we’ll go get it for you,’” Pringle said.
   The exhibit, “Mail by the Pail: The J.W. Westcott Company,” is now open in the Robert M. Dossin Gallery and runs through August.

Now available for application! “Mate Tug Class 1” position for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers onboard the tug Demolen

   The job announcement is now open, please find the announcement information below.
   Click on the link below in this e-mail to apply. Also can be found at “usajobs.gov” website.  “DHA” for the general public and “Merit” for current or former federal employees.
   Please see the job announcement links below for XH-5782-11 Mate, Tug, Class 1 position within the Detroit District.  These announcements will be used to fill the vacancy at the Detroit Project Office on the Tug DEMOLEN.
               DUTIES:             

• Ensures vessel is prepared to sail at the scheduled time, is seaworthy, properly crewed and fitted to accomplished assigned mission.
• Serves as timekeeper for the crew members and assists the Master to evaluate the crew’s performance.
• Navigates the vessel during assigned watch.
• Observes weather conditions, forecasts, barometer, wind velocity, and other weather indicators to determine suitableness for operation.
• Works from plans or field notes showing location and extent of work to be performed in removing shoals from channel. Locates area and makes necessary arrangement for accomplishing work.
• Enforces safety regulations and instructs crew both on safety work procedures and work practices peculiar to floating plant.
• Assigns port watches for safety and security of vessel and creates the schedule and insures equitable assignment of these duties to employees.
• Sets port watch schedule for safety and security of vessel. Ensures equitable assignment/rotation of workers.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Conditions of employment
• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not including auxiliary sail of less than 500 gross register tons (GRT)upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters (or greater/equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Master of towing vessels upon Great Lakes and inland waters (or equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Radar Observer (Unlimited)
• This position is covered by the Civilian Drug Abuse Testing Program. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 5019-R. Individual must pass drug test.
• This position requires a pre-employment physical exam AND annual physical due to the physical requirement of the position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver’s license.
• This position requires incumbent to obtain and maintain a First Aid Certification
• This position requires incumbent to wear safety equipment and/or use personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed.
• This position requires Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) up to 75% of duty time.
• Shift work is required during open-water (lake) towing operations.

OVERVIEW:
Accepting applications
Open & closing dates 02/17/2026 to 03/03/2026
Salary $47.96 to – $55.94 per day
Pay scale & grade XH 11
Location 001 vacancies in the following location: Detroit, MI
Remote job: No
Telework eligible: No
Travel Required: 75% or less – You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
Appointment type: Permanent
Work schedule: Full-time – Seasonal
Service: Competitive
Promotion potential: None
Job family (Series): 5782 Ship Operating
Supervisory status: No
Security clearance: Not Required
Drug test: Yes
Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Trust determination process: Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure: No
Bargaining unit status: Yes
Merit:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857902000

DHA:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857899800

Memories of sailing for the Ford fleet featured at GLMI dinner April 12

   The Great Lakes Maritime Institute presents its annual dinner at 2 p.m. April 12 at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit. Featured speaker will be Greg Rudnick, who will talk about his time sailing on the Ford Motor Co. vessels Henry Ford II and Benson Ford. See the flyer posted in the gallery for details. Reservations required by March 31.
[You can see the billing for this in the gallery below]

Chance to win a trip on a lakes freighter

Port and vessel activity for Friday February 20.  Port reports done by Tom Geiger unless otherwise noted. Please send future port reports and pictures to news@boatnerd.net
You can Now visit Matt Miner’s Saltie page at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/foreign-vessels-on-the-lakes-2024
The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at;  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026/

PORT REPORT 2/21/2026

BECANCOUR, CANADA                             [CABEC]
DUE:
Federal Alster-DUE-2/22/2026-1:48 AM
Harbour Express-DUE-3/2/2026-7:03 AM
Bulk Destiny-DUE-3/3/2026-11:01 PM

NANTICOKE, ONTARIO                             [CANAN]-Bill Kloss
Escorted by the cutter Vincent Massey, tankers Algoberta and Algonova arrived at the Long Point anchorage.
DUE:
Algoberta-DUE-2/20/2026-10:00 AM
Algonova-DUE-2/20/2026-6:00 PM
Algocanada-DUE-2/20/2026-3:46 PM

DETROIT, MICHIGAN                                  [USDET]
2/20/2026  Algoma Innovator-DEPARTS-7:35 AM-For-Goderich, Canada [Anchor]

WINDSOR, CANADA                                   [CAWND]
DUE:
Frontenac-DUE-2/22/2026-5:00 AM

GODERICH, CANADA                                 [CAGOH]
DUE:
Algoma Intrepid-DUE-2/21/2026-2:32 AM
Algoma Innovator-DUE-2/20/2026-8:00 AM
Algoma Niagara-DUE-2/22/2026-12:01 AM
Oakglen-DUE-3/1/2026-11:00 AM

SARNIA,CANADA                                          [CASNI]
2/20/2026  CCGS Judy LaMarsh-ARRIVES-1:07 PM

ROGERS CITY                                                 [USRCY]
DUE:
Baltic-DUE-2/21/2026-6:44 AM

SAULT STE. MARIE                                        [CASSM]
2/20/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-10:00 AM
2/20/2026  USCG Makinaw-DEPARTS-12:46 PM-For-[ICE OPS]
2/20/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-12:58 PM
2/20/2026  USCG Makinaw-DEPARTS-1:21 PM-For-[ICE OPS]
2/20/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-1:34 PM
2/20/2026  USCG Makinaw-DEPARTS-1:59 PM-For-[ICE OPS]
2/20/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-2:05 PM
2/20/2026  USCG Makinaw-DEPARTS-2:30 PM-For-[ICE OPS]
2/20/2026  USCG Mackinaw-ARRIVES-3:18 PM

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN                      [USMKE]
2/20/2026  Algoma Niagara-ARRIVES-2:51 AM
2/20/2026  Algoma Niagara-DEPARTS-4:10 PM-For-Goderich, Canada

1906
1906:   F & P M No 2 [Built-1882 US-120500 By Detroit Dry Dock Co. at Detroit, Michigan. Renamed: PERE MARQUETTE 2-1901 US-120500, and DUNDURN-1906 C-112207] Final U.S. enrollment surrendered at Milwaukee, WI, February 21, 1906, and endorsed \”sold alien.\”

1929
1929:   ERIE [Built-1899 US-150813 as PENNSYLVANIA by Detroit Dry Dock Co. at Wyandotte, Michigan. Renamed: OWANA-1905 US-150813, ERIE-1927 US-150813, T.A. IVEY-1934 C-158138, and ERIE-1964 C-158138] Sale to Allen S. Fawcett, of Detroit, MI, was by United States Marshal sale. As steamer ERIE: Destroyed by fire at Ecorse, MI, on February 21, 1929. Surrendered to underwriters. Hull sold four years later for conversion to barge.

1929:  On 21 February 1929, SAPPHO (wooden propeller passenger ferry, 107 foot, 224 gross tons, built in 1883, at Wyandotte, Michigan) burned at her winter lay-up dock in Ecorse, Michigan. She had provided 46 years of service ferrying passengers across the Detroit River. She was neither repaired nor replaced since the Ambassador Bridge was nearing completion.

1953
1953:   SS-367 (USS ICEFISH) Built-1944 By Manitowoc Shipbuilding Co, Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Renamed WALRUS (S-802) by Netherlands Net Navy-1953] Transferred to Netherlands on February 21, 1953. Returned to U.S. Navy and stricken from Navy List, July 15, 1971.

1958
1958:   ATA [Built-1918 US-216537 as LAKE HARNEY by American Shipbuilding Co. at Lorain, Ohio. Renamed: GERMINAL-1923-France, MALL-1929-Estonia, IRISH ROSE-1942-Ireland, FLAMENCO-1946-Panama, NIZETI-1952-Italy, and ATA-1957-Italy.] As ATA became constructive total loss after stranding, February 21, 1958, off Zanzibar (at Mwemba Island). Released and departed Zanzibar, March 18, 1959, under tow for Dar-es-Salaam, for scrapping.

1961
1961:  At Port Weller Drydocks Ltd., the keel of the new bow section for HILDA MARJANNE was laid on February 21, 1961, while at the same time the tanker hull forward of her engine room bulkhead was being cut away.

1979
1979:   PHILIP R CLARKE [Built-1952 US-263699 by American Shipbuilding Co. at Lorain, Ohio.] Suffered mechanical damage to steering engine February 1979 in Lake Superior ice; damage discovered at Two Harbors, MN, on February 21.

1979:  EDWIN H. GOTT arrived at Two Harbors, Minnesota, (her first trip) February 21, 1979, with the loss of one of her two rudders during her transit of Lake Superior. The other rudder post was also damaged. She was holed in her bow and some of her cargo hold plating ruptured as a result of frozen ballast tanks. Even the icebreaker MACKINAW suffered damage to her port propeller shaft on the trip across frozen Lake Superior.

2021
2021:  On February 12, 2021, K+S Windsor Salt Ltd. and Canada Steamship Lines announced the construction of a new, state-of-the-art self-unloading ship with a deadweight of 26,000 metric tons for service in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Great Lakes region. It was launched as NUKUMI.

Data from: Joe Barr, Dave Swayze, Ahoy & Farewell II and the Great Lakes Ships We Remember series.

The 2025-2026 winter layup list is now up and running at  https://boatnerd3.jasonbowlerdesign.com/winter-lay-up-list-2025-2026

National Museum of the Great Lakes Ranked
Second Best Maritime Museum in the U.S.

The National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, Ohio has been ranked as the No. 2 Best Maritime Museum in the nation for 2026 by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. The Toledo institution, which features thousands of artifacts and the SS Col. James M. Schoonmaker museum ship, was nominated in early 2026 and consistently held a top spot.
   The museum was voted the No. 2 maritime museum in the country in the 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice poll. In 2017, it was ranked among the top 10 attractions in Ohio.
   The museum is operated by the Great Lakes Historical Society and focuses on the history, culture, and industry of the region.
   The 2026 voting period concluded in early February, with the museum celebrating its nomination alongside other top national attractions. The Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit placed sixth. The Maine Maritime Museum took the top spot.

Great Lakes Iron Ore Trade a Near Match to January 2025

   Cleveland – Iron ore shipments on the Great Lakes totaled 2 million tons in January, a near match to 2025. Loadings were below the month’s 5-year average by 14.5 percent.
   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 chart in gallery below]

Now available for application! “Mate Tug Class 1” position for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers onboard the tug Demolen

   The job announcement is now open, please find the announcement information below.
   Click on the link below in this e-mail to apply. Also can be found at “usajobs.gov” website.  “DHA” for the general public and “Merit” for current or former federal employees.
   Please see the job announcement links below for XH-5782-11 Mate, Tug, Class 1 position within the Detroit District.  These announcements will be used to fill the vacancy at the Detroit Project Office on the Tug DEMOLEN.
               DUTIES:             

• Ensures vessel is prepared to sail at the scheduled time, is seaworthy, properly crewed and fitted to accomplished assigned mission.
• Serves as timekeeper for the crew members and assists the Master to evaluate the crew’s performance.
• Navigates the vessel during assigned watch.
• Observes weather conditions, forecasts, barometer, wind velocity, and other weather indicators to determine suitableness for operation.
• Works from plans or field notes showing location and extent of work to be performed in removing shoals from channel. Locates area and makes necessary arrangement for accomplishing work.
• Enforces safety regulations and instructs crew both on safety work procedures and work practices peculiar to floating plant.
• Assigns port watches for safety and security of vessel and creates the schedule and insures equitable assignment of these duties to employees.
• Sets port watch schedule for safety and security of vessel. Ensures equitable assignment/rotation of workers.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Conditions of employment
• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not including auxiliary sail of less than 500 gross register tons (GRT)upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters (or greater/equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Master of towing vessels upon Great Lakes and inland waters (or equivalent).
• Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Radar Observer (Unlimited)
• This position is covered by the Civilian Drug Abuse Testing Program. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 5019-R. Individual must pass drug test.
• This position requires a pre-employment physical exam AND annual physical due to the physical requirement of the position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state issued motor vehicle driver’s license.
• This position requires incumbent to obtain and maintain a First Aid Certification
• This position requires incumbent to wear safety equipment and/or use personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed.
• This position requires Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) up to 75% of duty time.
• Shift work is required during open-water (lake) towing operations.

OVERVIEW:
Accepting applications
Open & closing dates 02/17/2026 to 03/03/2026
Salary $47.96 to – $55.94 per day
Pay scale & grade XH 11
Location 001 vacancies in the following location: Detroit, MI
Remote job: No
Telework eligible: No
Travel Required: 75% or less – You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
Appointment type: Permanent
Work schedule: Full-time – Seasonal
Service: Competitive
Promotion potential: None
Job family (Series): 5782 Ship Operating
Supervisory status: No
Security clearance: Not Required
Drug test: Yes
Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Trust determination process: Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure: No
Bargaining unit status: Yes
Merit:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857902000

DHA:
Open: 2/17/2026
Close 3/3/2026
Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/857899800

Memories of sailing for the Ford fleet featured at GLMI dinner April 12

   The Great Lakes Maritime Institute presents its annual dinner at 2 p.m. April 12 at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit. Featured speaker will be Greg Rudnick, who will talk about his time sailing on the Ford Motor Co. vessels Henry Ford II and Benson Ford. See the flyer posted in the gallery for details. Reservations required by March 31.
[You can see the billing for this in the gallery below]

Chance to win a trip on a lakes freighter