Boatnerd Discussion Forum

Thanks. I was considering the possibility that the M/V Michipicoten, amidst the questions regarding it's hull integrity, might get "barged" and mated with the Rand's idled tug Invincible. I believe the project blueprints are likely going to be nearly the same, possibly identical, to those used for the conversion of the Sparrows Point into the Menominee; Rand likely owns those already unless they didn't come with the vessel from K&K. Invincible may need to work to match the coupling design of course. However, if the regualatory standards aren't significantly different to allow this, it likely wouldn't happen; the hull probably doesn't have enough life-span remaining to for them to see a return on the investment.

There are differences between the inspection standards and regulations, between tug/barge combos and ships, but they are not significant.

A tug/barge combo is likely more expensive to build, but has a significant offset: crewing requirements. A ship may require 25 crew, a tug pushing a barge may only require 10. Over the lifespan of a vessel, the cost of crewing really adds up.

Salary and benefits differences likely equates to more than $2m a year, not factoring in food/supplies, insurance, life saving equipment, etc. Over the life of a vessel this could get towards a $100m reduction in operating costs.

Are the inspection standards for certifications of the barge portion of an ITB or ATB lower than those of a motor vessel or steamship?