TowBoatU.S. Launch Service Assists With Miami Dredge Project

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock, the largest provider of dredging services in the United States, is currently working on Miami Beach's shore restoration project. The company has mobilized a variety of their equipment, workers, and management to the Miami area for this operation, including their own launch boat which is being used to transport personnel and supplies to and from Liberty Island; their 335' Hopper Dredge working offshore the Miami Coastline. Earlier this year they contracted TowBoatU.S. Fort Lauderdale to provide a 2nd launch boat which would allow them to transport a large group of VIP visitors to the Dredge. TowBoatU.S. Launch service's 46 foot Launch boat was chosen for the job to ensure the passengers were transported safely and comfortably.

The passengers were split amongst both launch vessels and they steamed alongside each other for about an hour north of the Port of Miami. TowBoatU.S. Fort Lauderdale's Captain Randy Thomas recalled, "The ability to transport these executives offshore in a dry, air conditioned cabin was priceless as it was unseasonably hot that day! During the transfer to the dredge, we provided a deck hand to assist each passenger to ensure their safety." Randy stated, "We typically transport crewmembers and technicians on most of our launch operations, this one was different as many of the passengers were executives dressed in business attire. I think they appreciated the fact that the boat was clean and comfortable."

Once all of the passengers were on Liberty Island, the dredge continued its operations south towards the Port of Miami. Captain Randy was directed to shadow the dredge for about 10 miles while the executives were on board for a tour. At the conclusion of the tour, both launch vessels came alongside and transferred each passenger without incident. The transport of the distinguished guests and their ability to observe the dredge in full operation was a success!

Whether performing offshore operations or awaiting berth in the Port Everglades or Port of Miami anchorages, TowBoatU.S. Fort Lauderdale will safely transport cargo and passengers to and from your ship. Contact their dispatch desk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your questions or to schedule a launch. You may also want to visit their website to learn more about their launch services at www.towboatusftlauderdale.com.