Nome Mayor Denise Michels and a couple hundred guests gathered at the Small Boat Harbor in Seward, Alaska, on May 10 to celebrate the christening of Crowley's newest tug - the Nachik (NAH-chick).
Later this month, the company will take delivery of its sister vessel, the Sesok (SEE-sock). Crowley has invested in these two IKKAT (Ick-cut) Class vessels specifically to support Alaska shallow draft challenges and to enhance environmental and safety presence in Alaska waters.
The Nachik, which means "hair seal" in the Alaska Native Inupiaq language, was jointly designed by Crowley and Diversified Marine. The Nachik is a 1,362 horsepower triple-screw diesel powered tug equipped to safely propel petroleum/freight barges in river systems throughout Alaska.
Crowley's Alaska shallow draft tugs are designed to operate in Alaska's rivers and coastal regions where operations are challenging due to restricted drafts and a lack of docking infrastructure. These boats are outfitted for both barge handling and ocean towing service. Designed with raised pilothouses, the 1,362 horsepower tugs are equipped to safely maneuver fuel/freight barges throughout the state.
Since 1953, Crowley has provided various marine, petroleum distribution, and energy support services in Alaska - from the North Slope to Southcentral Alaska and both coastal and inland communities including those along the Kuskokwim and Yukon Rivers.
(www.crowley.com)