Fort Lauderdale, FL 6/4/2020 - TowBoatU.S. Ft. Lauderdale took delivery of an incredibly robust 55 ANB (Aids to Navigation Boat) in mid-May. The boat has a rich history serving as a United States Coast Guard vessel and was built to service Coast Guard Aids to Navigation. She is 55 feet long, equipped with twin 12 cylinder Detroit Diesel engines, has berthing for 4 passengers and has a crane mounted to the work deck. The buoys that mark the entry channel to your local inlet have likely been serviced by a boat just like this one. This particular vessel served the Galveston, Texas area prior to being purchased and placed into commercial service several years ago. These boats were designed by the Coast Guard Yard and this class was built by R. E. Derecktor in their Mamaroneck, N.Y. Shipyard. The boat was built in 1977 to military specifications and has stood the test of time with amazing grace. She has been named in honor of the President and Founder, Larry Acheson’s wife, Katherine Acheson

TowBoatU.S. Ft. Lauderdale purchased the vessel to help fill a void left when their 46’ Launch boat entered a long term charter agreement. The company is working hard to put the boat in service in the next few days after completing a punch list to ensure she is fit and comfortable for duty. She will not be painted red or lettered with the TowBoatU.S. Trademarks right away so she can get to work taking care of the company’s loyal customers as soon as possible. The vessel will be primarily utilized as a cargo and passenger launch vessel, also performing medium range towing duties as the Bahamian government eases restrictions and the need for the company’s towing from the Bahamas spools up during the summer months.

About TowBoatU.S. Ft. Lauderdale:

TowBoatU.S. Ft. Lauderdale was founded in 1989. The company prides themselves in Solving Complex Marine problems 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We specialize in marine towing and salvage as well as providing commercial launch services and work boat charter services to the marine community in South Florida and beyond. Visit towboatusftlauderdale.com for more information on the company and our services.

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