Laker Launch: Mark W. Barker Hits the Water

By GLSR Staff  |  Lakers & Salties, New Construction & Ship Repair
October 28, 2021, is a date that will go down in history for many stakeholders throughout the Great Lakes/Seaway system. It’s the day Mark W. Barker became more than president of The Interlake Steamship Company. It’s the day his namesake was launched at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding.

The 639-foot self-unloader has been moved out of drydock, with finish work taking place over the winter. She will begin trading in the spring.

The ceremonial launch in Sturgeon Bay, Wisc., recognized Interlake as building the first U.S.-flagged laker in nearly 40 years. Speakers include Mark Barker, and his father, James Barker, company chairman. Honorary launch sponsor was Helen Sharp, wife of Ian Sharp, Interlakes director of engineering for fleet projects.

Sharp began design work on the new laker in 2017. He continues as project manager, representing the company at the shipyard and through ongoing technical discussions.

TAGS: , ,

M/V Tamarack is First Newbuild Cement Ship in the Great Lakes in 20 Years

M/V Tamarack arrived at the Port of Montreal on August 22, completing her maiden transatlantic voyage and marking a major milestone in North American shipping. Owned by Eureka Shipping, a joint... Read More

1958: The Year that Remade Great Lakes Shipping

1958 has received little attention as an important year for Great Lakes shipping. But, in fact, 1958 was a year of four pivotal events that together reshaped it. The St.... Read More