Master Boat Builders delivers sixth tugboat for Gulf LNG, Moran partnership

(WO) — Master Boat Builders has launched the Jill, the sixth and final vessel in a series of Rapport 2800 tugboats built for Gulf LNG Tugs of Port Arthur, supporting LNG terminal operations on the U.S. Gulf Coast. 

Gulf LNG Tugs of Port Arthur is a joint venture involving Bay-Houston Management, Bay Towing, Moran Towing Corporation, and Suderman & Young Towing Company.

The vessel is one of two identical tugs designed specifically for Gulf LNG operations and was developed by naval architect Robert Allan Ltd.

The tug measures 92 ft in length with a 40-ft beam and delivers more than 85 metric tons of bollard pull. It is equipped with firefighting systems meeting ABS Fire Fighting Vessel 1 (FFV1) classification, supporting safety during terminal and ship-assist operations.

“These vessels are designed to meet the operational and safety requirements of LNG terminal support,” said Garret Rice, president of Master Boat Builders.

Both vessels in the final phase of the program are expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2026.