Bouchard Transportation selects VT Halter Marine to build two ATB vessels

Vision Technologies Systems’ subsidiary VT Halter Marine has secured a contract from Bouchard Transportation for the development of two articulated tug barge (ATB) vessels.

The 130ft-long vessels, M/V Bouchard Boys and M/V Evening Light, will be classed by ABS as A1 ocean-towing, dual-mode ATBs.

VT Halter Marine plans to commence work on the vessels later this year at its Moss Point Marine facility in Escatawpa, Mississippi, US.

Each of the 6,000hp twin-screw tugs will feature an Intercon coupler system, Tier III engines and Lufkin gears.

Scheduled for delivery in January and May 2016 respectively, the two vessels will complement Bouchard’s existing fleet service in New York.

VT Halter Marine CEO Bill Skinner 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 US.

"The Bouchard family has been a long-standing and valued customer of ours. We look forward to delivering these ATB tugs into their fleet."

Bouchard’s fleet of barges, ranging from 80,000 barrels to 250,000 barrels along with the new tugs, will be equipped with Intercon, according to the company.

VT Halter Marine designs, builds and repairs various ocean-going vessels and ferries catering to the maritime requirements such as patrol, oil recovery, oil cargo, logistic support and surveys.