2023 Participating Vessels
/John J. Harvey
The Fireboat John J. Harvey, launched in 1931 in Brooklyn, was named in honor of FDNY pilot John J. Harvey, who lost his life fighting a ship fire. This historic vessel was a pioneering fireboat, being the first powered by internal combustion engines and capable of both pumping and maneuvering simultaneously. It was the largest and fastest firefighting machine of its time, able to pump an impressive 18,000 gallons per minute, equivalent to 20 terrestrial fire trucks. The John J. Harvey played a crucial role in protecting New York Harbor for over six decades, responding to significant fires such as the Cunard Line pier fire in 1932 and the Normandie fire in 1942. Decommissioned in 1994, it was saved from the scrapyard by dedicated volunteers and transformed into an operational museum and education center. Notably, it was reactivated by the FDNY on September 11, 2001, alongside other fireboats, pumping water for 80 hours to combat the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. This heroic action inspired a book and earned it the title of 2018 Tugboat Roundup Boat of the Year. The John J. Harvey remains a symbol of maritime innovation and bravery.
Joncaire
The Joncaire is a 43 foot tugboat built in 1979. Its original was to install and remove ice booms on Lake Erie for the Niagara the Power Authority. Now she is owned and operated by the NYS Canal Corporation and works the canal system.
Lady Gabrielle
This Nordic Tug is a member of the Troy Yacht and Canoe Club, just across the river. Lady Gabrielle was purchased in Annapolis, Maryland in August of 2012. The boat left Maryland a month before Hurricane Sandy hit the east coast. She’s been a regular Tugboat Roundup participant for the last decade.
Reliant
The Reliant is a 1988 Nordic Tug. She’s 32 feet with a beam of 11 feet. She’s powered by a reliable Cummins Inboard engine. With a draft of 3 feet and 9 inches, the Reliant is designed to navigate a range of waterways with ease.
Moor-Than-E-Nuff
The Moor Than E-Nuff is Ranger tug built in 2007 by Ranger. She is well-suited to withstand the rigors of river life. With a modest air draft of 12 feet and a water draft of 2 feet and 9 inches, she's perfectly designed to navigate the Hudson. Measuring 28 feet in length and boasting a beam of 8 feet and 6 inches, the Moor than e-nuff offers ample space and stability for her maritime journeys. She is powered by a dependable Yanmar four-cylinder diesel engine, delivering 110 horsepower to propel her gracefully through the river's currents. Notably, she also features a diesel cabin heater, ensuring comfort during those colder river cruises. Since her purchase in 2007, she has called the Hudson River her home, embodying the spirit of adventure and exploration that this iconic waterway represents.
At Last
Crafted in 2000 by Nordic Tugs in Burlington, Washington, the At Last has called the Great Lakes home. Initially hailing from Sandusky, OH, under her original owner until 2016, presently, she graces the Edgewater Yacht Club in Cleveland. Notably, she's equipped with a distinctive Kahlenberg "tugboat whistle" and air horn, adding a touch of nostalgia and grandeur to her presence. This Nordic Tug 32, with her semi-displacement hull, is an oyster white beauty with a dark blue hull stripe and trim, exuding timeless elegance. Capable of accommodating six for drinks, four for dining, and two for restful sleep, she's a vessel that combines functionality with comfort. The At Last embodies the spirit of exploration and has spent her entire life cruising the picturesque Great Lakes. This is her first visit to the Tugboat Roundup.
Sonny
The Sonny, a splendid Ranger Tug, has been a cherished vessel for the past six years on the waters of the Hudson and Connecticut River. Crafted with precision in 2012, she showcases the enduring craftsmanship of Ranger Tug. This beauty stands at 21 feet in length, with a comfortable 8-foot beam, offering ample space for her maritime endeavors. Powered by a reliable Yanmar engine delivering 30 horsepower, the Sonny glides gracefully through the waterways. She's perfectly suited for navigating both open waters and shallower river passages. Her home port is at the Middlesex Yacht Club in CT.
Jolly Bobber
Homemade 14”6’ mini tugboat built in 2021.
Toot-Toot
TooT TooT is a Berkley designed mini tug that was built by Mike and Louise Magnant. Mike actually built the boat around the steering wheel that Louise gave him for Christmas way back in 1996. Before Mike could build the tug however, he promised Louise that he would build her a three season room on the side of their house. It took four and a half years, working part time, before TooT TooT was launched in August 2002. TooT TooT is 14'3" long and 7'4" wide and has participated and won many awards in events all over the northeast.
Ko-Hog
Mini-tug. 14’3”. Launched unfinished in 2015, still getting her finishing touches. Her home port is on Cape Cod where her owner enjoys shell fishing. Named for the hard shell clam “quahog.”
My Pal Sal
The My Pal Sal is a delightful mini-tug, a charming vessel that pays homage to the rich history of the NY canal system. Built in 2020 with a blend of wood and fiberglass, she embodies a blend of classic craftsmanship and modern materials. Measuring 14 feet in length, she may be compact, but she packs a lot of character into her design. Powered by a 20 hp outboard motor, she's both nimble and delightful. Her name is a nod to the Erie Canal's most illustrious mule, and her vibrant paint job in NYS Canal Corp colors proudly showcases her connection to this iconic waterway. My Pal Sal won the Little Toot award in 2022, a well-deserved accolade for this beloved vessel. Her primary port in Johnstown, NY.
Atlantic Hunter IV
This 19-foot custom constructed Glen-L design wood hull boat, "Beau-Jest" model was constructed in constructed in 2001 with Southern Arkansas Yellow pine and marine plywood. All wood is encapsulated in multiple applications of West Systems Epoxy She features a double bunk with ample head room, flushing head, freshwater facilities, paneled wheel house, rear lounge with built-in seating, and a full size pass-thru window between wheel house and rear. The boat was acquired in mid-2022 and has undergone many changes from the original to bring it up to specifications of the ATLANTIC HUNTER succession of boats. She sailed on waters from Florida (her origin) to Minnesota and Massachusetts before this acquisition and has been well maintained during that 21 year period. An onboard fire in the fall 2022 required some repairs to make her TBR ready again.
This is the fourth named boat to display the ATLANTIC HUNTER name and wear the insignia of the Blue Dolphin Marine Towing and Salvage company.
Bath JR
This 25’ mini tug built 2016 is TBR regular and fan favorite.
Tracy's Landing
25’ ranger tug.
Tuggin’ Teeth
Tuggin’ Teeth was originally built as the Atlantic Hunter II by Ben Grudinskas. Her distinct features include real working bronze portholes, solid wood paneling interior adorned with mahogany and teak trim, showcasing wood reclaimed from 1960s-era wooden boats. Steel fore and aft "H" bitts and quarter bitts add to her character. Tuggin’ Teeth has not only participated in the Tugboat Roundup but has also claimed prestigious titles under her previous name; Little Toot award and the 2017 Tug of the Year. She’s been rebuilt by her current owner Russ O'Connell of Lebanon Township, NJ.
Caldwell Belle
The Caldwell Belle is a true gem of the waters, an authentic and chain-driven sternwheel paddleboat with a rich history. Originally built in Wisconsin, this remarkable vessel found her way to the Capital Region after a stint in Louisiana, thanks to the efforts of Captain Bob and Marie Foster, who operated her as a tour boat. Today, she is proudly owned and operated by Mohawk Maiden Cruises of Schuylerville, embodying the spirit of riverboat nostalgia. As one steps into her wheelhouse, a massive steering wheel commands attention, showcasing the authenticity of a stern-wheeled riverboat. Her main level is thoughtfully enclosed, providing comfort and shelter for passengers. Powered by a Ford Lehman 120 HP diesel engine, meticulously maintained, and equipped with bilge pumps for safety. The Belle serves at the stage during Tugboat Roundup.
G AN' SEA
The G AN' SEA, although diminutive in size, exudes a unique and endearing charm. She is a special vessel of the kayak origins, captained by the skilled Gina L. Freeman during the Tugboat Roundup. Her primary port of call is Waterford, N.Y. Another Ben Grudinskas masterpiece, she is both resilient and lightweight. With an air draft of just 4 feet and a water draft of a mere 6 inches, she is perfectly suited for shallow waterways and can slip through low bridges with ease. Her compact dimensions of 8 feet in length and 2 feet in beam make her an agile and efficient vessel. Powered by an electric engine, she offers eco-friendly cruising. The G AN' SEA may be tiny, but she embodies the spirit of innovation and passion for boating, making her a delightful addition to the Roundup.
Other Office
The Other Office is a versatile pleasure craft. Measuring 43 feet in length and boasting a beam of 14.5 feet, she provides ample space and stability for passengers to enjoy a variety of experiences on board. Whether it's a day of productive towing or an evening of fine dining, the Other Office is a pleasure craft that seamlessly transitions between her roles, offering a unique and memorable journey on the water.
Toto
The story of Toto is a heartwarming story that stems from the courageous actions of her owner, a firefighter, during a tornado in Massachusetts back in 2011. During that fateful day, a stranded kitten was brought to the firehouse by a tree worker, and the firefighter, Jonathan, took the little kitten under his wing. So moved by this experience, Jonathan penned a book titled "Toto the Tornado Kitten" to immortalize the incredible tale. Not stopping there, he also named his cherished tug boat after the beloved feline, creating a heartfelt connection between the two. Toto, the boat, is a 21-foot 2014 Ranger 21EC, bearing a special significance in her name. She's equipped with a 30 HP Volvo Penta 3-cylinder Diesel Inboard engine, ensuring reliable performance on the water. With factory options and thoughtful additions, Toto is equipped for both comfort and adventure. Jonathan's dedication to Toto and his heartwarming story make this vessel not just a boat but a vessel with a soul, carrying the spirit of resilience and compassion that inspired her name.
Spirit of Albany
The Spirit of Albany is owned by the Albany Port District Commission and based and operated in the Port of Albany, NY. It is primarily used for inspections of the Port District's waterfront facilities and as a work platform for wharf repairs. Prior to the Albany Port District Commission's acquisition it served the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New York District as the survey boat "Sentry" in New York Harbor for over thirty years. Built by Pasch Marine in 1966 the boat measures 64' LOA, and is powered by 2 12V71 Detroit Diesel engines for propulsion and a 453 Detroit Diesel engine for electrical power
Herbert P. Brake
The Herbert P. Brake, a sturdy vessel with a rich history, was meticulously handcrafted by Bart Brake in 1992 along the Champlain Canal, using recycled steel. This tug boasts a formidable Cummins diesel engine, capable of generating 800 horsepower, ensuring its reliability and power. With a length of 60 feet, a hull depth of 7 feet, and a gross tonnage of 52, the Herbert P. Brake embodies the essence of classic canal tugs while integrating modern features like its hydraulic retractable wheelhouse and twin pushing knees on the bow. For years, this venerable tug plied its trade, engaging in regular towing duties within the canal system and along the east coast under the banner of DMC Marine at the Port of Coeymans. It also enjoyed a prominent presence at the Tugboat Roundup during its early years, with Captain Brake being an enthusiastic supporter of the event and a beloved figure within the canal community. In 2014, the DonJon Marine Company acquired the Herbert P. Brake, subsequently renaming her the Rebecca Ann, ensuring that her legacy continues on a new journey in the maritime world.
The Hebert P. Brake was the 2005 Tug of the Year!
8th Sea
The 8th Sea, with a rich history dating back to its construction in 1953 at the American Electric Welding Company in Fells Point, Baltimore, Maryland, originally served the United States Army as a harbor tugboat. Harbor tugboats are distinct for their smaller size and higher width-to-length ratio, designed to navigate shallow waters with ease. In the 1970s, the 8th Sea embarked on a new chapter, finding work that truly resonated with its name. Operating along the St. Lawrence Seaway, famously known as the "8th Sea" leading to the Great Lakes, it played a pivotal role in scanning lock entrances to identify dredging needs. Collaborating with the Tug 4th Coast, it contributed significantly to the Seaway's operations. However, by the 1990s, the 8th Sea transitioned to private ownership under Bill Curry, who owned Lake Towing and Salvage in Plattsburgh, NY. Since 2000, the 8th Sea has served the purpose of summer home, cruise ship, evening gathering spot, meeting location, hide and seek base, and rescue boat. She is a staple in Waterford and Troy. Her captain spends his summers with the 8th Sea and his winters in Grand Cayman Islands.
Lucy H
The Lucy H. has a fascinating and diverse history of ownership and name changes spanning several decades. Originally built in 1980 at Eymard and Sons Shipyard in Harvey, Louisiana, with the hull number 14, she was christened as the Gary J. Eymard for the Louis Eymard Towing Company of Marrero, Louisiana. Over the years, it underwent numerous transformations, with name changes such as Christopher D., Eagle, Miss Tammy, Mr. Lane, HR Beaver, and HR Beaver. In 2013, under the ownership of the General Electric Company of Albany, New York, the tug underwent a significant overhaul, including the addition of a retractable pilothouse. In 2016, it found a new home with the New York State Marine Highway Transportation Company and was finally named Lucy H. This twin-screw tug, boasting 800 horsepower and measuring 52.3 feet in length with a gross tonnage of 88, continues to navigate the waters under its latest identity from its hailing port in Troy, New York, marking the latest chapter in its storied maritime journey.
CMT Otter
The CMT Otter, with a history spanning several decades and multiple name changes, is a robust towing vessel with an interesting maritime journey. Originally built in 1980 by the Louis G. Ortis Boat Company in Krotz Springs, Louisiana, with hull number 89, she was first known as the Papa Tom and served under Mire Marine Services Incorporated of Franklin, Louisiana. Over the years, she underwent several transformations, including being renamed the Miss Bert under the ownership of Inland Marine Company in 1986 and later the Delta Ram when it was acquired by the Delta Towing Company in 2004. In 2013, under the General Electric Company's ownership, she was renamed the HR Otter and underwent a significant transformation with the addition of a retractable wheelhouse. In 2016, she became the CMT Otter under the Coeymans Marine Towing Company, which currently operates this twin-screw towboat powered by two Cummins KTA-19 diesel engines, boasting a rating of 1,200 horsepower. Measuring 62 feet in length with a gross tonnage of 85, the CMT Otter continues to navigate the waters from its hailing port in Coeymans, New York, marking the latest chapter in its maritime legacy.
Margot
The Margot, originally named the Hustler II and built in 1958 at Jakobson Shipyard Incorporated in Oyster Bay, New York, carries a rich history through her various owners and names. She began her maritime journey under the banner of the Oil Transfer Corporation of New York, New York. In 1962, the Moran Towing Company of New York acquired her, giving her the name Margot Moran. Over the years, she underwent several transitions, bearing names like Jolene Rose under the Metropolitan Petroleum Company and simply Margot when she joined the Kosnac Floating Derrick Corporation of Staten Island, New York, in 1993. In 2002, the New York State Marine Highway Transportation Company became her new home, where she retained the name Margot. This single-screw tug, powered by a Fairbanks Morse OP diesel engine with a rating of 1,440 horsepower, stands as a testament to her enduring presence in the maritime world. With a length of 84.8 feet, she continues to serve from her hailing port in Troy, New York, boasting a gross tonnage of 141 and offering essential capacities for fuel, lube oil, fresh water, and potable water, ensuring her readiness for the challenges of the towing industry.
Nathan G
The Nathan G, originally christened as the Brute Force, is a storied towing vessel with a rich history spanning several decades. Constructed in 1977 by Marine Industries Incorporated in Morgan City, Louisiana, she initially bore the name Brute Force. A year later, Seabrook Towing Incorporated of Charleston, South Carolina, acquired the tug and renamed her the Hinton. In 1987, the McAllister Brothers Towing Company of New York, New York, took over Seabrook Towing, but the tug retained her name. It wasn't until 2004 that the vessel's name changed to Joan McAllister under McAllister Towing and Transportation. In 2017, she found a new home with the New York State Marine Highway Transportation Company of Troy, New York, and was rechristened as the Nathan G. With her twin Detroit 12-149 diesel engines producing 1,200 horsepower and her enduring steel construction, the Nathan G continues to play a vital role in maritime transportation along the coastwise routes.
Sarah D
The Sarah D, a distinguished tugboat, has been a stalwart presence in the maritime world since her construction in 1975 by Putnam Shipbuilding of Palatka, Florida. Originally known as the Lauren S. Coppedge, she was initially commissioned by Wayland T. Coppedge Jr. of the White Stack Towing Company in Jacksonville, Florida. However, the White Stack Towing Company later decided to rename her as the Helen D. Coppedge. In 1978, the White Stack Towing Company became part of the Turecamo Coastal and Harbor Towing Corporation of New York, New York, but the tugboat retained her name. Then, in 1998, when Turecamo was acquired by the Moran Towing Corporation of New Canaan, Connecticut, the Helen D. Coppedge continued to proudly bear her name. It wasn't until 2016 that she found a new home with the New York State Marine Highway Transportation Company of Troy, New York, where she was lovingly rechristened as the Sarah D. As a twin-screw tug boasting a robust 2,000 horsepower, the Sarah D stands as a testament to maritime excellence and tradition, and her legacy is further underscored by her past accolades, including being a former Best in Show winner at Tugboat Roundup. She is not just a vessel but a maritime legend in her own right.
CGC Wire
The Wire, an impressive vessel with a compelling history, was poised to claim the coveted title of Boat of the Year in 2011. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans as the 2011 tugboat Roundup was canceled due to the disruptive force of Hurricane Irene. However, her remarkable qualities could not be denied, and in 2012, the Wire rightfully earned the prestigious title of Boat of the Year. Built in 1963 by Barbour Boat Works, this 65-foot tugboat hails from Saugerties, NY, and boasts a draft of 6 feet and 6 inches. The Wire belongs to the USCG 65' small harbor tug class, a group of fifteen tugs utilized by the United States Coast Guard for various critical functions, including search and rescue, law enforcement, aids-to-navigation work, and even light icebreaking. These tugs are renowned for their icebreaking capabilities, with the ability to break through 18 inches of ice when moving forward and 21 inches when backing and ramming. Originally equipped with a single 400 horsepower diesel engine, some have since been upgraded to more powerful 500 horsepower main drive engines, ensuring their continued effectiveness and service.
J. Arnold Witte
The J. Arnold Witte, recognized as the 2022 Tug of the Year, is an impressive vessel with a bright future ahead. She was meticulously crafted in 2021 by the skilled hands at the DonJon Shipbuilding and Repair Company of Erie, Pennsylvania, bearing the distinguished hull number 145, and commissioned for the esteemed DonJon Marine Company Incorporated of Hillside, New Jersey. This triple-screw towboat, measuring 78 feet in length and 26 feet in breadth, exudes power and grace, perfectly designed by Boksa Marine Design to navigate the intricate waterways of the 524-mile NYS Canal System, New York Harbor, Hudson River, and beyond. With a draft of nine feet and a telescoping wheelhouse, she's primed for versatile cargo handling from her homeport in Port Newark, NJ. Powered by three robust Mitsubishi S6R2-Y3MPTAW diesel engines, complemented by ZF 3350 reduction gears, and turning three mighty 66-inch four-bladed stainless steel propellers, the J. Arnold Witte commands an impressive 2,400 horsepower. Her electrical needs are expertly met by two Kohler 65EOZJC generators, driven by two John Deere 4045TFM85 engines. With capacities including 29,281 gallons of fuel, 521 gallons of lube oil, 521 gallons of slop oil, 4,578 gallons of potable water, and 20,681 gallons of ballast, she's well-equipped for her maritime duties. Tug enthusiasts and maritime aficionados alike are undoubtedly captivated by her two 40-ton Nabrico DF-1-11L winches on the bow and one Nabrico DF-HC-15 capstan on the stern. As the youngest tug to be named Tug of the Year, the J. Arnold Witte's legacy is only just beginning, symbolizing the future of maritime excellence.
James Turecamo
The James Turecamo, rightfully hailed as this year's Tug of the Year, is a maritime masterpiece that has graced the waters since her construction in 1969 by Matton Shipyard about a half mile from the site of Tugboat Roundup. Originally christened for the Turecamo Harbor and Coastal Towing Corporation of New York, New York, she has remained steadfast in her name, a testament to her enduring legacy. Powered by two formidable twelve-cylinder Caterpillar 399 diesel engines and equipped with cast steel, fixed-pitch propellers driven by Wagner rotary vane pumps, this twin-screw tug is a formidable force on the seas, boasting an impressive 2,000 horsepower. Her electrical needs are met by two reliable 60kW generator sets. With a capacity of 38,833 gallons of fuel and 13,472 gallons of ballast, the James Turecamo is well-prepared for her maritime missions. Her towing prowess is exemplified by a World War II surplus Almon Johnson towing winch mounted proudly on her stern. As a maritime gem with a storied past and a promising future, the James Turecamo commands respect and admiration, rightfully earning the title of Tug of the Year for her exceptional contributions to the world of towing and maritime excellence.
