The Great Lakes Towing Company Orders Two New Damen Tugs from Great Lakes Shipyard

Hulls 11 and 12 will continue the company’s fleet renewal and expansion program and its long-term investment in  Great Lakes shipping

The Great Lakes Towing Company announced today that it has placed  an order with Great Lakes Shipyard for the construction of two new Damen-designed harbor tugs. The vessels will be  Hulls 11 and 12 in the company’s Damen newbuild series, continuing a fleet renewal and expansion program that has  already brought ten new Damen tugs into service. 

Construction is expected to begin later this year at Great Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland. The first tug is scheduled for  delivery in late 2027, followed by the second in early 2028. 

“The Great Lakes have been our home for more than a century, and this order reflects our confidence in the future of  commercial shipping throughout the region and our commitment to the customers who depend upon us,” said Great Lakes  Towing Company President, Gregg Thauvette. “Continuing to renew our fleet is essential to maintaining safe and reliable  harbor towing service and preparing the Towing Company to meet our customers’ needs for years to come.” 

Like the ten Damen tugs already in service, Hulls 11 and 12 will be constructed, outfitted, and commissioned at Great  Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland. 

“Building the first ten Damen tugs gave our team valuable experience that we will carry into the construction of the next  two vessels,” said Tom Rigolo, President, Great Lakes Shipyard. “We are proud that this work will continue here in  Cleveland, and we look forward to seeing Hulls 11 and 12 take shape.” 

The project represents a continued investment in the Towing Company’s fleet, the Shipyard, the skilled employees who  build, maintain, and operate the company’s vessels, and the marine transportation system that supports industries and  communities across the region. 

About The Great Lakes Towing Company 

The Great Lakes Towing Company provides harbor towing and marine services throughout the Great Lakes. Since 1899,  the company has supported commercial shipping through its network of vessels, crews, and shoreside operations across  the region. 

About Great Lakes Shipyard 

Great Lakes Shipyard is a full-service shipyard located in Cleveland, Ohio, providing new vessel construction, repair,  maintenance, and marine fabrication services.