PACIFIC-GULF MARINE TO MANAGE HEAVYLIFT U.S.-FLAG VESSEL

PACIFIC-GULF MARINE TO MANAGE HEAVYLIFT U.S.-FLAG VESSEL    Pacific-Gulf Marine has completed an agreement with Patriot Shipping to manage and operate the heavylift U.S.-flag vessel, 'Industrial Challenger.'
   The 8,000-deadweight-ton multipurpose vessel, built in 2000, has a lifting capacity of 400 metric tons, suitable for transporting large project shipments.
   The vessel is expected to operate in the U.S.-to-South America trade while pursuing other opportunities to move commercial and U.S. government cargoes from the United States to other countries. The vessel will be enrolled in the U.S. Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement and the Defense Department’s sealift program.
   The Industrial Challenger will be crewed by the American Maritime Officers and Seafarers International Union.
   Pacific-Gulf Marine, based in New Orleans, was formed in 1976, and has 13 vessels under its management. “We very much look forward to developing a long term relationship with Patriot Shipping as they expand into the U.S.-flag market,” said Capt. Peter F. Johnson, president and chief executive officer of Pacific-Gulf Marine.