en.Wedoany.com Reported - Crescent Towing plans to build four additional 6,000-horsepower Z-drive tugs at Blakely BoatWorks in Mobile, Alabama, over the next four years.

The first tug is scheduled for delivery in 2027, the second in 2028, and two more in 2029. By then, Crescent Towing's fleet across its three operating ports—New Orleans, Mobile, and Savannah—will include 15 ASD (azimuthing stern drive) tugs. The company stated that this newbuilding program will be sustained over the long term to further strengthen the fleet.

The new vessels are sister ships to the recently delivered M/V Kentucky and M/V Angus R. Cooper II, each measuring 92 feet by 38 feet with a draft of 19 feet. Each tug is equipped with two Caterpillar 3516E Tier 4 engines, generating 3,004 horsepower to power Kongsberg 255 fixed-pitch Z-drives.

Scott H. Cooper, President of Crescent Towing, said that the ongoing newbuilding program with Blakely BoatWorks reflects the company's investment in fleet reliability, performance, and strength. He expressed pleasure in continuing this program long-term to fulfill the commitment to providing the highest quality service in the industry.

Keith Kettenring, Executive Vice President of Crescent Towing, noted that the exceptional performance of the M/V Kentucky and M/V Angus R. Cooper II has proven the vessel design to be efficient and reliable. Adding four more 92-foot, 6,000-horsepower Z-drive tugs from Blakely BoatWorks will further modernize and strengthen the fleet, providing customers with the most reliable service.

The vessels to be built will be constructed to American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Maltese cross, A-1 towing, AMS, full ocean service, international load line, and escort towing classification. Designed by Crowley Engineering Services, the tugs will have a fuel capacity of 43,846 gallons and a potable water capacity of 16,811 gallons.

Swathin Kannalath, Managing Director of Blakely BoatWorks, stated that the shipyard is proud to continue its partnership with Crescent Towing in building this series of 6,000-horsepower tugs. These vessels represent the highest standards of design and performance and will serve the Crescent Towing fleet efficiently for many years.

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