Nichols Brothers Inks Z-Drive Tractor Tug Contract

Nichols Brothers Boat Builders recently signed a vessel construction agreement with Baydelta Maritime, LLC for construction of a new 100′ x 40′ Z-Drive Tractor Tug. Since 2006 this will be the ninth Tug Nichols has built of this series, and the sixth new vessel for Baydelta.

Jensen Maritime Consultants of Seattle, Washington, Baydelta Navigation, and Nichols Brothers Boat Builders developed the idea and design back in 2006 of what they call the Delta Class Tug Design. The 100′ x 40′ escort Tractor Tug is ABS load line certified and consists of a complete propulsion system that includes two Caterpillar 3516C diesel engines coupled to the Rolls Royce US 255 FP Z-drive system. The tug is also equipped with two C6.6 CAT generators. The propulsion package will produce over 90 tons of bollard pull with a combined horsepower of 6,800, giving the tug exceptional pulling power and maneuverability. The vessel is outfitted with two Markey winches, one forward for escort/ship assist and one aft for towing, Smith Berger tow pin aft, SSR Marine fenders, Mackay Marine Electronics, and a Technicold by Northern Lights HVAC system.

“Nichols yard does excellent work, you have a very dedicated and talented workforce and now with Mr. Matt Nichols back in charge there is again very good communications between Nichols and Baydelta. Mr. Shawn Bennett, Owner of Baydelta Maritime is very pleased to be back with Nichols Bros Boat Builders in order to continue Baydelta’s new building program” says Peter Zwart, Baydelta Maritime’s Operations and New Build Manager.

[mappress]
Press Release, August 26, 2013