In this issue

A sweeping change in shipborne commerce will take effect on Jan. 1 with the implementation of the International Maritime Organization’s 0.5 percent sulfur cap. While operators in Emission Control Areas are already in compliance, big questions remain across North America about fuel quality and cost after the global shift. In its December/January issue, Professional Mariner examines what’s likely to happen and who will be affected. Moving beyond diesel, all-electric propulsion has proven viable for smaller commercial vessels. But can it step up to handle the demands imposed by tugboats and pilot boats? Many now believe the answer is yes, with plans in the works at Damen for the world’s first full-size electric tug. We also take a closer look at the challenges still ahead in the rollout of Subchapter M, and what led to the Conception dive boat disaster in California.

Industry Signals - Global Sulfur Cap Brings Uncertainty Over Fuel Prices, Blending

It has taken decades to build the fuel supply chain for the 50,000-vessel global merchant fleet. The pending 0.5 percent sulfur cap on marine fuel stands to upset this entrenched structure, with price volatility likely as a result.

5 mins

Navy Opts For Physical Throttles On Destroyers After Fatal Collisions

In the wake of high-profile collisions involving U.S. Navy destroyers, including a 2017 incident that killed 10 sailors aboard USS John S. McCain, the service is revising bridge training practices and addressing what it sees as an over-reliance on computer touch screens for ship control.

3 mins

Towing - Subchapter M Glass 'Half Full' Amid Progress And Challenges

In one breath, Tom Allegretti, president, and CEO of the American Waterways Operators describes Subchapter M as “a singular milestone” for an industry striving to improve safety and eliminate spills.

5 mins

Wind In The Winches: Towing Up The Mighty Columbia

It was a busy March day aboard Tidewater Transportation’s Captain Bob, catchup time due to annual lock closures by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Columbia and Snake rivers.

7 mins

New SIT Towboat Bewitches With Hull ‘Voodoo,' Z-Drives

First light was breaking as Capt. Bob Asher maneuvered Karl E. Johnson across the Mississippi River to the Southern Illinois Transfer (SIT) fleet at Ste. Genevieve, Mo.

2 mins

All-Electric Tugs And Pilot Boats: Are They Ready For Prime Time?

There are electric ferries and tour boats, along with proposals for fully electric containerships, bunker tankers, and barges. But how will all-electric vessels measure up to the extreme power demands of harbor tugs, or the distance and speed requirements of pilot boats?

5 mins

Read all stories from Professional Mariner

Professional Mariner Magazine Description:

Tugs, towboats, cargo, government, passenger, spill response, pilot boats, offshore support, salvage, dredge and fireboats - Professional Mariner covers them all. Plus, only Professional Mariner gives you all the essential information you need to advance your maritime business or career including the latest news and in-depth, investigative reporting on maritime casualties, regulations, legislation, shipbuilding, safety, technology, business/management issues and more.