The second of three state-of-the-art Arctic Class tugs, the Denise Foss, was christened at the Foss Waterway Seaport in Tacoma on June 1.
The vessel, which was built at Foss’ Rainier, Oregon shipyard, is designed to operate in the extreme conditions of the far north. It’s expected to enter service this summer.
The Denise Foss is ice class D0, meaning the hulls are designed specifically for polar waters and are reinforced to maneuver in ice. She also has: a Caterpillar C280-8 main engine, which complies with the highest federal environmental standards; a Nautican propulsion system; and Reintjes reduction gears. Markey Machinery supplied the tow winch.
The tug has a bollard pull of 221,000 pounds and also incorporates several environmentally-focused designs and structural and technological upgrades, including:
- Elimination of ballast tanks, so there is no chance of transporting invasive species;
- Holding tanks for black and gray water to permit operations in no-discharge zones, such as parts of Alaska and California;
- Hydraulic oil systems compatible with biodegradable oil;
- Energy efficient LED lighting; and
- High-energy absorption Schuyler fendering.
In his opening remarks during the ceremony, Foss COO John Parrott applauded the hard work and dedication of the people, designers and customers that made this project possible.
“The christening ceremony is our way of honoring our history,” Parrott said. “The boat sitting behind me represents our future.”
He also introduced Denise Tabbutt, the vessel's namesake and one of the three sisters who are primary shareholders of Saltchuk, Foss Maritime’s parent company.
Tabbutt both spoke at the event and also broke the ceremonial bottle of champagne across the tug’s hull.
“In order to stay relevant in a fast and ever changing world, it's important we remain committed to our shared values and continue looking for opportunities to better serve our customers,” Tabbutt said. “The Arctic Class tugs are the perfect example of this commitment.”
