Working Conditions Aboard the Coastal-Standard

On February 28, 2016, Dakota Creek Industries, based in Anacortes, Washington, proudly delivered the MV Coastal Standard, marking its entry into the U.S.-flagged maritime trade in Western Alaska. This newly built freighter, measuring 242 feet by 54 feet, boasts an impressive refrigerated cargo capacity of 120,000 cubic feet. Designed to replace two aging vessels that have served for over 50 years in Coastal Transportation's fleet, the MV Coastal Standard will significantly enhance the efficiency and reliability of cargo delivery from Seattle to various ports in Western Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. The ship is tasked with transporting essential goods, including construction equipment, fishing supplies, household items, and perishable refrigerated goods. The design of the Coastal Standard, which was meticulously crafted by NaviForm Consulting & Research from Vancouver, British Columbia, features fully enclosed cargo holds that are accessible through a waterproof door located portside. This innovative approach effectively prevents rain and snow from infiltrating the cargo area, thereby boosting cargo-handling efficiency. Loading and unloading are streamlined thanks to a sophisticated elevator that links the upper cargo holds, lower cargo area, and main deck, all serviced by forklifts. A significant focus on fuel efficiency is evident in the vessel's molded hull, which includes a bulbous bow and a canoe stern, combined with a high-efficiency rudder for optimal performance. Powering the MV Coastal Standard is a robust 3,084 horsepower C280-8 Tier 2 Caterpillar engine, enabling a rapid service speed of 14 knots. Its propulsion system features a 2,300 kW Schottel Controllable Pitch Propeller SCP 77/4-XG designed for high-speed free running and exceptional maneuverability, eliminating the need for traditional reversing gears. Additionally, the vessel incorporates a Reintjes LAF 2355 reduction gear provided by Karl Senner, LLC from Kenner, Louisiana. Two 360 kW Schottel Pump Jets SPJ 85 RD serve as maneuvering aids and back-up propulsion, cleverly housed within the hull to enhance the vessel’s design. With a deadweight tonnage of 2,200 dwt, the MV Coastal Standard accommodates the crew comfortably, offering nine single cabins along with an additional cabin that can host four extra crew members or guests. This state-of-the-art cargo vessel is set to revolutionize the transportation landscape in Western Alaska, delivering goods efficiently and reliably for years to come.