Solving Complex Marine Problems Since 1989
Our History
Offshore Marine Towing Founded by Larry Acheson
Founded as Offshore Marine Towing Inc. by Larry Acheson. Began operations with a single 24’ Privateer serving North Broward County. Joined BoatU.S. towing network.
Lighthouse Point Marina Base Established
Established Lighthouse Point Marina base, enabling rapid response times—often under 5 minutes near Hillsboro Inlet.
Second Base Opened at Lauderdale Marina
Opened second base at Lauderdale Marina. Expanded service coverage across Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
Introduced first Sunken Vessel Recovery Unit
Introduced first Sunken Vessel Recovery Unit, expanding salvage and recovery capabilities.
First VHF High Site and Private Radio Systems Added
Deployed first VHF high-site communication system to improve range and reliability.
Fleet Replacement Began with Custom 31' Twin Diesel JCs
Began fleet modernization with custom 31’ twin-diesel JC towboats.
Three Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boats Added
Added RHIBs (rigid-hull inflatable boats) to increase speed and shallow-water response capabilities.
Added second VHF high-site, further strengthening communication coverage.
Added second VHF high-site, further strengthening communication coverage.
Launch Services Added to Local Anchorages and Florida Straits
Expanded services to include launch operations for local anchorages and the Florida Straits.
Third Port Opened on the New River
Opened third base on the New River, improving service to Ft. Lauderdale’s major marine facilities.
Tug Shillelagh Launched
- Launched tug Shillelagh with 360° visibility wheelhouse
- Added 46’ launch vessel with passenger amenities
- Introduced landing craft for environmental and containment response
Larger Sunken Vessel Recovery Unit Put Into Service
Upgraded to a larger, more advanced Sunken Vessel Recovery Unit.
Pompano Beach Operations Moved to New Dispatch Center
Relocated Pompano Beach operations to a 4,000 sq. ft. office with adjacent 10,000 sq. ft. warehouse.
Communications and Fast Response Fleet Upgraded
- Implemented multiple VHF high-sites with microwave and VoIP integration
- Upgraded RHIB fleet to military-spec aluminum hybrid vessels
- Achieved fully redundant communications with no reliance on traditional phone lines
Service Expanded Across South Florida and Beyond
Added 55’ former U.S. Coast Guard Aids to Navigation Vessel named Lady Katherine, enhancing heavy-duty operational capabilities.
Service Expanded Across South Florida and Beyond
Completed major refit on TowBoatU.S. Launch including new engines, transmissions, advanced electronics, and upgraded onboard systems.
Service Expanded Across South Florida and Beyond
Chloe Collins appointed President, continuing the company’s legacy of innovation, operational excellence, and customer-focused service.
