M/V Richard L. Becker undergoes her Periodic
Coast Guard Inspection

March 2010 marked the date of the Richard L. Becker's Semi Annual Dry-Dock examination. The vessel is the flagship of TowBoatU.S. Ft. Lauderdale's fleet; she carries a U.S. Coast Guard Certificate of inspection under sub chapter "T" allowing her to carry up to 49 passengers on coastwise day trips and up to 12 passengers on overnight international voyages. She also has an ABS load line allowing her to carry up to 38 long tons of cargo and equipment.

During the semi annual inspection, the District 7 Marine Safety Office inspected items that are typically reviewed annually such as Navigation Safety, Structural Integrity, Health & Safety, Ground Tackle, Life Saving, Fire Protection, Machinery and Pollution Prevention. The semi annual dry-dock inspection includes a detailed inspection of the external hull plating, welding, rudders, propellers, shaft packing glands and all through hull fittings and valves. TowBoatU.S. Director of Operations Kevin Collins reports "The inspection went well again this year; the crew has done a fantastic job keeping up with the periodic maintenance on the boat which has helped to reduce the financial burden and rigorous labor requirements that many companies deal with during these inspections."

The Coast guard has placed their stamp of approval on the inspection once again certifying that the Richard. L. Becker is fit for service. To learn more about the boat, visit the company's Charter Services page located on the left margin of this newsletter.