Posted on December 21, 2025
PANAMA CITY, FL – Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) is pleased to announce the launch of the first of the four Saltchuk escort tugs, marking substantial progress on this significant fleet renewal program.
“We are proud to advance this important project for Saltchuk Marine and look forward to continued progress as we move toward delivering these high-quality escort tugs,” said Joey D’Isernia, CEO of Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc.
“These four vessels set a new maritime standard that will positively impact the industry by meeting new rigorous environmental requirements.” said Jason Childs, Saltchuk Marine’s President and CEO.
The four escort tugs are part of a long-term fleet renewal initiative that reflects Saltchuk Marine’s continued commitment to the maritime industry. Constructed at ESG’s facilities in Allanton and Port St. Joe, Florida, these vessels will enhance safety, reliability, and operational capability. Upon delivery, they will support critical ship assist and escort operations across the U.S. West Coast, Hawaii, and Alaska.
VESSEL SPECS:
Customer – Saltchuk
Type – Ship Assist/Escort Tug
Length, overall – 84′-0″ (excluding fenders)
Breadth, moulded – 42′-0″
Depth, moulded – 14′-0″
Draft, navigation – 18′-7″
Accommodation for – 8 persons
Speed, ahead – 12 knots
Bollard Pull, minimum – 95 Short Tons (86.2 MT)
Main Engines – Caterpillar 3516E, EPA Tier 4, 3500 hp (2610 kW) @ 1,800 rpm
Thrusters – Schottel RudderPropeller SRP 510
Hawser Winch – Markey Machine DEPGF-52, 75HP, Single Drum Class II Winch
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About Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. (ESG) is an American owned and operated shipbuilder with three shipyards on the Florida Gulf Coast. They build world class vessels for national defense and commercial clients. ESG is the largest private sector employer in Northwest Florida and is a 2017 recipient of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Small Business of the Year award. With a portfolio of over 350 vessels and Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) certified systems, ESG is known as one of the most diverse vessel construction companies in the country. www.easternshipbuilding.com
