Lakers & Salties
More than 25 companies operate ships on the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence Seaway System. Find the latest information on shipbuilding, ship innovations, and technological advances here.
Alpena: Classic Laker 80 Years Young
In mid-March, the cement carrier Alpena departed her winter lay up dock in Cleveland sporting a fresh coat of paint from her five year inspection at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding at... Read More
Great Lakes Shipbreaking: Canada’s MRC Provides Clean, End-of-Life Ship Recycling
Great Lakes vessels have much longer lifespans than salties, but sooner or later, they, too, face the inevitable. When that time comes, their final journey could be to a breakers... Read More
Herbert C. Jackson: Small but Powerful Contributor to Interlake’s Fleet
Although the smallest boat in the Interlake Steamship Company fleet, at 690 feet, Herbert C. Jackson is an active and important contributor. The Jackson has carried a wide variety of... Read More
Change Is the Only Constant: Adapting to the Ever-Changing Demands of Industry
There are many things in which change is the only constant, and this has been the case for the barge Commander through her 65-year career. She has been rebuilt time... Read More
Great Lakes Towing Acquires Plotz Machine & Forge
Great Lakes Towing Company (GLT) has purchased nearly all of the assets and real estate of The Wm. Plotz Machine & Forge Company. The two companies, Cleveland-based neighbors, have done... Read More
New Technologies: Are efficiencies and opportunities taking us backward?
My briefcase was stolen out of my car while I was traveling recently. In addition to having to cancel or report stolen articles like my passport, my Nexus card, my... Read More
New Biodiesel Era: CSL Completes the World’s Longest-Running Trials on Marine Engines
With sights on decarbonization and environmental stewardship, CSL recently completed trials using B100 biodiesel to power bulk carriers and self-unloading bulkers in the Great Lakes. Testing began in 2020 and... Read More
Decarbonizing for Success: Reduced Fuel Costs and Enhanced Efficiency Demonstrated Onboard Algoma Conveyor
The maritime industry’s growing focus on decarbonization faces unique logistical challenges based on its wide variety of fuel and technology needs. Furthermore, shipping has seen a simultaneous rise in operating... Read More
Preparing to Receive Larger Lakers
Alpena receives $3.8 million to upgrade vessel access Three other Great Lakes ports benefit from similar MARAD grants THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION is funding dock improvements in Alpena, Mich.... Read More