en.Wedoany.com Reported - Marquette Transportation's new flagship vessel, the "John Paul Eckstein," was christened in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, in January 2026. This 10,000-horsepower tugboat is named after the company's longtime president and current Executive Chairman, John Paul Eckstein.

John Paul Eckstein joined Marquette Transportation in 1990 and became its president in 1991. Under his leadership, the company grew from just five tugboats to over 130 vessels, operating nearly 200 boats alongside its sister company, New Orleans Canal Barge Company. Marquette Transportation CEO Damon Judd stated, "John's success stems from his relentless competitive drive, innovative thinking, dignified approach to customer partners, and his capabilities as a leader."

At the christening ceremony, Eckstein said, "Tugboats are in my blood. I've spent my entire life around the Mississippi River, and it's a tremendous honor to have this vessel bear my name."

The flagship tugboat was designed by CT Marine of Portland, Maine, USA, and built by C&C Marine and Repair of Belle Chasse, Louisiana, USA. It entered service in October 2025, operating between St. Louis and New Orleans. The vessel measures 189 feet by 50 feet and is powered by twin Caterpillar C280-12 main engines provided by Louisiana CAT. It features 122-inch diameter propellers and utilizes CT Marine's TwinDIFF steering system.

Jerry Jarrett, Senior Vice President of Engineering at Marquette Transportation, collaborated with the design team to optimize the hull, including reducing its length and draft, and developed a unique steering system. Jarrett said, "The 'John Paul Eckstein' is the only tugboat operating with a high-lift steering rudder system. This design alters water flow and enhances handling performance."

The vessel is equipped with three Caterpillar C9.3 generator sets, each rated at 250 kilowatts. Tank capacities include 120,000 gallons of fuel and 16,000 gallons of fresh water. Deck equipment features six 65-ton electric winches and a Wintech capstan. The crew area provides 12 berths distributed across 10 cabins.

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