VT Halter to Build Bouchard ATB Tugs

VT Halter Marine, Inc., a subsidiary of Vision Technologies Systems, Inc. (VT Systems), today announced new contracts to build two 130-foot Articulated Tug Barge (ATB) tugs for Bouchard Transportation Co., Inc. (Bouchard).

Measuring 130 feet by 38 feet by 22 feet, these 6,000hp Twin Screw ATB tugs will be classed by ABS as A1 Ocean Towing, Dual Mode ATB, USCG Subchapter C, both will be equipped with an Intercon Coupler System. Construction of the vessels will begin in 3Q2014 at VT Halter Marine’s Moss Point Marine facility in Escatawpa, Miss., with delivery expected in January 2016 and May 2016. These vessels will enter into Bouchard’s fleet service in New York, N.Y.

“I am happy to share the news of Bouchard Transportation’s fleet expansion,” said Morton S. Bouchard III, President/CEO, Bouchard Transportation. “I look forward to the delivery of two more first-class vessels built by VT Halter, and would like to thank Mr. Brian Everist for Intercon’s assistance in completing these contracts.”

Bill Skinner, Chief Executive Officer of VT Halter Marine, said, “We appreciate the continued confidence that Bouchard Transportation has in VT Halter Marine as we continue to build for the largest ATB operator in the U.S. The Bouchard family has been a long-standing and valued customer of ours. We look forward to delivering these ATB tugs into their fleet.”

vthaltermarine.com