What Crew Members Say About Caitlin

In a remarkable milestone for maritime operations, TradeWinds Towing, headquartered in New Orleans, successfully completed the inaugural tug-barge transit through the newly expanded Panama Canal locks. The tug, known as HOLLYWOOD, embarked on this significant journey on January 20, transporting the deck barge JMC 3336 to Seattle. Measuring 106.5’ in length, 33.7’ in width, and with a depth of 14’, the HOLLYWOOD boasts a powerful 4,200 horsepower. Originally constructed in 1985 by Sanchez Marine Shipbuilding Inc. in Fall River, Massachusetts, TradeWinds acquired this seasoned tug in 2016 and recently enhanced its capabilities through an extensive life-extension program at Conrad Deepwater Shipyard in Amelia, Louisiana. Equipped with twin EMD-16-645-E2 engines and a Markey TDSD-32 winch featuring 2,000 feet of 2-inch wire on both port and starboard sides, the HOLLYWOOD delivers an impressive bollard pull of 52 tons, highlighting its robust performance specifications. The JMC 3336, with a beam of 120 feet, surpasses the former Panamax dimensions by an additional 14 feet, reflecting the advancements in maritime infrastructure following the canal's widening. Previously utilized for oil field operations in Mexico, the barge was acquired by new owners in Washington State. Mike Brook, the port captain for TradeWinds in New Orleans, provided insight into this significant achievement for both the company and the industry.