VIBS ATB Completes Sea Trials

Cut VIBSATB Van Isle Barge Services, Ltd. (VIBS) said that its Van Isle Link and Sealink Pusher articulated tug-barge combination (ATB) recently completed sea trials off the coast of Vancouver, British Columbia. This commercial drop trailer ATB is powered by two fuel efficient, V228 medium-speed diesel engines provided by GE Marine, Erie, Pa. Similar to others in VIBS’ fleet, the Van Isle Link/Sealink Pusher ATB will provide cargo services between Vancouver and Vancouver Island once it is placed into VIBS’ service rotation in early January. In fact, with the addition of this new ATB, VIBS will provide 60% of Vancouver Island’s groceries. The short-sea shipping concept that uses commercial drop trailer barges allows VIBS’ ATB fleet to act as roll-on and roll-off vessels to carry semi-trailers, automobiles, off-road industrial equipment and other self-propelled vehicles. VIBS’ drop-trailer transport services offer a safe, secure shipping alternative, saving approximately 50% over traditional driver accompanied ferry transport by eliminating the cost of tractor and driver during the ferry waiting/sailing process.