The following is the text of a news release from VT Halter Marine:
(PASCAGOULA, Miss.) — VT Halter Marine Inc., a company of Vision Technologies Systems Inc. and Bouchard Transportation Co., announced the successful launch of barge B. No. 272 on Nov. 20. This is the second barge of two articulated tug-barge (ATB) units constructed for Bouchard Transportation Co. Inc.
Measuring 628 feet by 91 feet by 47 feet, the barge B. No. 272 has a 250,000-barrel capacity and is ABS and USCG certified for Jones Act service. When completed, the barge will be paired with the tug M/V Donna J. Bouchard, which was launched by VT Halter Marine at the Moss Point Marine facility in Escatawpa, Miss., on Sept. 15. M/V Donna J. Bouchard is a 10,000-hp twin-screw ATB tug and is classed by ABS as an A1 Towing Vessel, Dual Mode ATB, USCG Subchapter M, and is equipped with Intercon coupler system. This will be the second ATB unit delivered to Bouchard Transportation Co. Inc. as part of their major expansion program.
“The launching of the B. No. 272 is another milestone in the construction program that Bouchard Transportation Co. Inc. entered into with VT Halter Marine two years ago. The B. No. 272 will join her sister vessel the B. No. 270 in Bouchard’s fleet as the most modern and technically equipped ATBs on the Jones Act trade. Bouchard anticipates delivery of the unit, M/V Donna J. Bouchard and B. No. 272, in January 2016, followed by a naming ceremony in New Orleans,” said Morton S. Bouchard III, president and CEO of Bouchard Transportation. “I would also like to thank the employees of VT Halter Marine for all their hard work in delivering such modern vessels.”
“The successful launch of barge B. No. 272 today is a significant milestone in the life of the vessel as well as another quality vessel produced by VT Halter Marine,” said Jack Prendergast, chief executive officer, VT Halter Marine. “The launch today, as well as the additional launches held over the last few months is a strong indication of the commitment to success with our customer, Bouchard Transportation."
The first ATB unit, M/V Kim M. Bouchard and barge B. No. 270, was christened by Bouchard Transportation in July, and is currently in service with the Bouchard Transportation fleet.
