Blount Marine Corporation News

Blount-Barker Shipbuilding signed a contract on April 15th with Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) to convert the M/V Essex to passenger only service. The 100 ft. open deck passenger/auto ferry with single ended propulsion will be converted to increase the maximum capacity from 149 to 600. Modifications include a conversion to double ended propulsion, enclosing the main deck and providing a steel canopy to cover the upper deck. The vessel will be converted for inspection and certification as a small passenger vessel in accordance with the requirements of 49CFR Subchapter K. The M/V Essex was originally built by Blount Marine Corporation in 1981 for the Lake Champlain Transportation Company.

The 100 ft. passenger ferry M/V Freedom was launched today on the ways at Blount/Barker Shipbuilding, llc in Warren, R.I. Bristol Harbor Marine Design designed and oversaw the construction of the 100 ft. passenger ferry conversion for the Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA). 149 to 600. systems and provision of a partially enclosed upper deck viewing area. K requirements in the design. R.I. auto/passenger ferry, under USCG Subchapter T requirements. vicinity of Camden and Philadelphia.