Lockport Launches Tug for LA Carriers

Lockport Fabrication has splashed another of their classic gulf-style tugs into the Bayou this month. The 82 by 29-foot model bow tug joins LA Carriers, LLC of Cut Off, Louisiana.

The new vessel joins the Bayou LaFourche-based firm founded by Mr. Russell Plaisance in 1986. The firm has achieved success towing general cargos as well as serving the oil industry.

With a molded depth of 10 feet and a draft of only eight feet, the tug delivers a total of 1,980 HP. This high horsepower with a relatively shallow draft is obtained by utilizing three of Cummins QSK19-M3 Tier 2 engines that generate 660 HP each at 1800 RPM. These engines, working through Twin Disc MG 5222 gears with 6:1 ratios, turn 63x67-inch stainless steel propellers on six-inch shafts and in Kort nozzles.

Tankage includes 40,000 gallons for fuel, 8,000 gallons for potable water and 220 gallons for lube oil. On deck there is a Smatco double-drum winch with 1900 feet of 1.5-inch wire cable as well as a separate anchor drum with 1000 feet of 1.5-inch cable. Wheelhouse electronics include tow Furuno 1621 48-mile radar, two Eclipse VHF radios, Furuno fathomter, GPS, autopilot and AIS.

The new boat, to be named the Lady Loren, was launched into Bayou LaFourche from Dickie Adams father-son shipyard on November 3 and will undergo a fitting out period before final delivery in December.