A Tug Transformed: From Steel Repairs to Cutting-Edge Upgrades
At Derecktor Fort Pierce, we take pride in breathing new life into hardworking vessels. When Curtin Maritime brought their newly acquired tugboat to us, they needed more than just a few touch-ups—they needed a full-scale upgrade to ensure safety, performance, and longevity and comfort for Captain and Crew
Over the course of the project, our skilled shipyard team tackled deck steel work, structural reinforcements, and high-performance modifications to meet the toughest industry standards, including ABS fire safety requirements to bring this 1970’s vessel back to life.
Key Upgrades & Enhancements:
✅ Deck Reinforcement: Repaired multiple high-traffic areas with new steel inserts, ensuring durability and crew safety.
✅ Engine Room Bulkhead Upgrade: Strengthened with new steel plating to enhance fire safety and meet ABS compliance.
✅ Custom Welding Work: Installed new toolboxes, workbenches, storage shelving, and seating brackets to improve functionality.
✅ Exterior & Structural Enhancements:
- Replaced bridge deck railings for enhanced safety.
- Installed custom spotlight mounts for improved visibility on fore and aft decks.
- Modified the exhaust stack with an additional blower fan and a sleek, custom-designed combing.
✅ New Control Station Installation: Designed a fully integrated aft station with custom display cut-ins for seamless operations.
✅ Branding & Aesthetic Improvements:
- Custom aluminum nameboards with the Curtin Maritime logo.
- New vinyl company name across the main house for instant recognition.
✅ Interior Upgrades & Crew Comfort:
- Carpentry repairs to doors, trim, and bunk modifications for enhanced storage.
- Updated electrical systems, including new outlets, bridge electronics upgrades, and customized lighting controls in the wheelhouse.
- New video & audio monitoring system in crew areas to meet the latest US Coast Guard regulations.
From structural steel repairs to high-tech upgrades, this project was a testament to our expertise in heavy-duty vessel refits. Curtin Maritime’s tug is now stronger, safer, and more functional than ever, ready to take on the toughest jobs with confidence.
