Signet Maritime Corporation Announces Recapitalization with Riverstone Credit Partners, L.P.
Houston, Texas, August 20, 2019— Signet Maritime Corporation (“Signet” or the "Company") today announced that it closed a $140 million Senior Secured Term Loan Facility (the “Term Loan”) with Riverstone Credit Partners, L.P., a dedicated energy and power credit fund managed by Riverstone Holdings LLC (“Riverstone”).
Proceeds from the Term Loan are to repay and retire the Company’s existing first lien credit facility, to fund development capital expenditures and to pay related transaction fees and expenses. This financing transaction was solely led and arranged by Riverstone. Signet retains 100% stock ownership by its President, CEO, and Founder, J. Barry Snyder of Houston, Texas..
“Signet’s exceptional maritime expertise combined with our financial flexibility will allow Signet to execute on numerous expansion initiatives over the next 18 months,” said J. Barry Snyder. “This recapitalization, along with Signet’s advantageous positioning within our ports of operation, allows us to support the growing exports of crude oil and natural gas from the U.S. Gulf Coast. We look forward to continuing to provide reliable and safe service to our existing and new customers and the local communities in which we operate.”
“Our capital commitment to Signet reflects the confidence we have in the Company’s future and their operational excellence,” said Co-Head of Riverstone Credit, Jamie Brodsky. “We are pleased to partner with Signet and support their growth going forward. Signet’s best-in-class fleet and embedded market position enables them to effectively service their increasing customer base and strong backlog of activity.”
"We are very pleased to partner with Riverstone in this new credit facility," said Jerome P. Loughren, Chief Financial Officer of Signet. “By completing this transaction, we have fully satisfied our near-term maturities while adding additional liquidity to the balance sheet.”
Jones Walker LLP represented Signet as legal counsel in the negotiation and execution of the Term Loan. White & Case LLP represented Riverstone Credit Partners, L.P. as legal counsel.
About Signet Maritime Corporation:Since 1976, Signet Maritime has been an industry leader delivering quality marine transportation and logistics services to customers worldwide. The award-winning company operates a diverse fleet of tug boats specifically designed for multi-disciplinary work including ship-assist, ship escort, towing, offshore support, subsea and rig moves. Certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISM, STCW-2010, SIGTTO, MTSA, SEEMP and 46 CFR Subchapter M; in addition to meeting all applicable USCG, SOLAS, MARPOL, and EPA requirements. Signet’s award-winning shipyard provides quality construction, repair and engineering services to the maritime industry. It’s strategically located along the Pascagoula River with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, and is capable of dry-docking seven vessels simultaneously. The $7.5M infrastructure expansion enables total construction in a protected environment with 600-ton Marine Travelift.
About Riverstone Holdings LLC:Riverstone is an energy and power-focused private investment firm founded in 2000 by David M. Leuschen and Pierre F. Lapeyre, Jr. with over $34 billion of capital raised. Riverstone conducts buyout, growth capital and credit investments in the exploration & production, midstream, oilfield services, power, and renewable sectors of the energy industry. With offices in New York, London, Houston, and Mexico City, Riverstone has committed over $34 billion to more than 130 investments in North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia.
For more information contact:
Gayle Snyder
+1 713 840 1100
Signet Maritime President/CEO honored with U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Public Service Award
Ingleside, Texas, September 12, 2018—Mr. J. Barry Snyder, President & CEO of Signet Maritime Corporation was presented the United States Coast Guard Meritorious Public Service Award by Rear Admiral Paul F. Thomas, Commander, Eight Coast Guard District, for his outstanding contributions to Port Corpus Christi, Ingleside and the United States Coast Guard from July 2017 to January 2018.
Signet supported the Coast Guard on three separate occasions during this time, demonstrating their proactive engagement and cooperative spirit. During and after Hurricane Harvey, Mr. Snyder provided Sector/Air Station Corpus Christi with tugs to respond to storm damaged vessels and reconstitute the port. Additionally, on October 20, 2017, Mr. Snyder and the Signet Ingleside Team provided tremendous support with firefighting application to extinguish a fire onboard Barge No. 255, an effort that helped settle the fire within ten minutes. Finally, Mr. Snyder entered into a mutual training agreement with Coast Guard Sector/Air Station Corpus Christi on December 22, 2017 to build knowledge and experience for both crews in advanced Search and Rescue operations for fixed and rotary wing aircraft.
Captain Richard A. Hahn, Sector Commander/Air Station Commanding Officer and Captain Jason E. Smith, Deputy Sector Commander representing Sector Corpus Christi participated in the ceremony at the Signet Maritime International Operations Complex located in Ingleside, Texas. Admiral Thomas accompanied by Captains Hahn and Smith joined the voyage onboard SIGNET ARCTURUS, and a demonstration of Fire Fighting Class 1 (Fi-Fi1) by SIGNET CONSTELLATION and SIGNET STARS & STRIPES while transiting the LaQuinta Channel.
RADM Thomas congratulates Mr. Snyder while Captain Hahn, Captain
Moore and Joshua Johnson participate in the award presentation
RADM Thomas onboard SIGNET ARCTURUS navigating the LaQuinta Channel as Captain Taylor
and Joshua Johnson demonstrate technologically advanced equipment in the wheelhouse
About the Award
Meritorious Public Service Award to Mr. Barry Snyder
The Commandant of the United States Coast Guard takes great pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Meritorious Public Service Award to Mr. Barry Snyder, President and CEO of SIGNET MARITIME, for his outstanding contributions to the Port of Corpus Christi and United States Coast Guard from July 2017 to January 2018. Throughout this time Mr. Snyder’s proactive engagement and cooperative spirit provided Sector/Air Station Corpus Christi with tugs to respond to storm damaged vessels and reconstitute the port following the historic Hurricane HARVEY, firefighting capabilities to extinguish a fire onboard the Barge No. 255, and a real-world Search and Rescue training platform for fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Hurricane HARVEY, an unprecedented category four hurricane, with winds reaching 135 miles per hour and storm surge exceeding 10 feet, destroyed or severely damaged approximately 80 percent of multiple coastal communities. In advance of the storm, Mr. Snyder pre-emptively engaged the Coast Guard and made his fleet of tugs available to assist with response and recovery efforts. In particular, Mr. Snyder used his resources to assist with clearing vessels, including last minute departures of two drill ships from the Port of Corpus Christi prior to the storm’s arrival. Without hesitation, he dispatched SIGNET vessels to help remaining vessels in port hold their positions significantly reducing the threat of damage to facilities throughout the port area. Despite losing one vessel and sustaining significant damage to another, Mr. Snyder’s collaboration and cooperation aided response personnel in the salvage of a 500-foot drillship and other vessels that grounded and blocked the entrance channel preventing commercial traffic from transiting into and out of the port. As a direct result of his contributions, the Coast Guard balanced competing environmental and economic drivers to safely open the port within six days following this historic hurricane. Additionally, Mr. Snyder provided tremendous support to Coast Guard response operations following the report of an explosion, fire, and subsequent oil spill from Barge No. 255 with 140,000 barrels of crude oil onboard in the Aransas Pass Anchorage. Immediately upon notification, Mr. Snyder independently directed SIGNET tugs with marine firefighting capabilities to assist with the Coast Guard’s response efforts. First to arrive on scene, his vessels provided boundary cooling and blanketed the barge with foam, extinguishing the fire within 10 minutes. These efforts prevented the catastrophic release of the remaining crude oil onboard the barge and eliminated devastating impacts to the local economy, environment, and sensitive wildlife throughout the Corpus Christi region. Finally, on December 22, 2017, Mr. Snyder entered into a mutual training agreement with Coast Guard Sector/Air Station Corpus Christi. RADM Thomas onboard SIGNET ARCTURUS navigating the LaQuinta Channel as Captain Taylor and Joshua Johnson demonstrate technologically advanced equipment in the wheelhouse This training agreement is designed to build knowledge and experience for both Coast Guard and SIGNET crews with advanced search and rescue training and enhance critical proficiency across both organizations. Mr. Snyder’s dedication, professionalism and unwavering support for public service are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.
About Signet Maritime Corporation: Since 1976, Signet Maritime has been an industry leader delivering quality marine transportation and logistics services to customers worldwide. The award-winning company operates a diverse fleet of tug boats specifically designed for multi-disciplinary work including ship-assist, ship escort, towing, offshore support, subsea and rig moves. Certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISM, STCW-2010, MTSA, SEEMP and 46 CFR Subchapter M; in addition to meeting all applicable USCG, SOLAS, MARPOL, and EPA requirements.
About Signet Shipbuilding & Repair: Award-winning shipyard providing quality construction, repair and engineering services to the maritime industry. Strategically located along the Pascagoula River with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, and is capable of dry-docking seven vessels simultaneously. The $7.5M infrastructure expansion enables total construction in a protected environment with 600-tonne Marine Travelift.
For more information contact:
Gayle Snyder
+1 713 840 1100
Signet Shipbuilding Launches New Construction ASD for E.N. Bisso & Son, Inc.
PASCAGOULA, MS – November 18, 2016— On the morning of October 12, 2016, E.N. Bisso and Signet Shipbuilding & Repair (SS&R) Pascagoula, Mississippi, christened and launched E.N. Bisso’s newest high technology Robert Allan Ltd. (RAL) design tug. Mrs. Deborah F. McDonald, wife of Mr. William H. McDonald, President, E.N. Bisso, New Orleans, Louisiana, was the Christening Sponsor.
The GLADY B, SS&R Hull 109 was launched immediately following the ceremony, and will be delivered on-time and on-budget December 12, 2016. This ASD tug is the fourth RAL design vessel constructed by SS&R, with two new build contracts currently under negotiation.
“E.N. Bisso is proud to add the GLADYS B to our growing fleet of the most advanced, powerful, and maneuverable tugs on the Lower Mississippi River (LMR). Upon delivery, ocean going vessels calling on the LMR will immediately begin enjoying the benefits that the GLADYS B will provide. The craftsmanship and attention to quality of the highest standards by Signet Shipbuilding leaves no doubt that she will serve our company well for decades to come,” said Mr. McDonald during the vessel’s christening.
“She is named for the wife of the Founder of the Company in 1946, Captain Edwin Napoleon Bisso. This powerful steel titan will serve her Owner well. Built in America, Built by Americans and Built for Progress. She will soon be known in Louisiana as the Maserati of the River,” said Signet President, Mr. J. Barry Snyder.
With a LOA of 80’ and beam of 38’, GLADYS B will be powered by two (2) MTU 16V 4000 M64 EPA Tier 3 engines, rated at 2681 BHP each at 1800 RPM. These MTU engines utilize the latest technology and will reduce tug operating costs due to enhanced machinery performance, low fuel and lube consumption, and longer service intervals. The specific engine design allows for maximum reliability that will keep GLADYS B operating with greater up-time and reduced maintenance expense. “The selection of MTU Series 4000 to power GLADYS B, is a perfect fit given their high fuel efficiency and lower overall life cycle costs,” said Mr. Jeff Sherman, Commercial Marine Sales Manager for MTU America. “Signet Shipbuilding and E.N. Bisso have high demands for their vessel programs and MTU will prove, once again, these engines are the best power for this world-class tug.”
The engines drive two (2) Rolls-Royce, US 205 P20 FP Azimuth stern drives. The propulsion package will provide in excess of 60 metric tonnes bollard pull. RAL collaborated with Signet to GLADYS B mobilized and launched by 660 ton Travelift at Signet Shipbuilding & Repair implement a number of upgrades to the original design utilizing the latest technology to increase the vessel's capabilities to accomplish multi-disciplinary work including ship-assist, ship escort and barge moves.
GLADYS B is outfitted with a Markey DEPGF-42S, Electric 50 HP bow hawser winch and a DEPC-32 20 HP Markey deck winch on the stern, two (2) John Deere Model 6068 AFM 85, 99 kW (each), 480V Tier 3 generators and vessel fire-fighting system. Newly designed habitability features allow accommodations for six (6), a modern galley and state-of-the-art wheelhouse complete with electronic chart display, log desk and controls, instrumentation, navigation aids, and 360 degree sliding pilot chair. GLADYS B is full American Bureau of Shipping Classification, Maltese Cross A-1 Towing vessel, ABS Certified Escort Class, Maltese Cross AMS and FIFI Capable.
Signet Maritime Corporation recently invested $7.2 million in infrastructure improvements to its Pascagoula, Mississippi shipyard, SS&R to support an increased workload and future growth. This state-of-the-art facility features a newly constructed 11,000 sq. ft. covered fabrication hall to accommodate the simultaneous construction of two vessels protected from the environment, permitting higher quality control and cost savings for customers. In addition to the recent acquisition of the 150 ton crawler crane, the facility modernization includes the dredging and renewal of 1,000 feet of bulkhead, expanded dry-dock, 1 acre of 22” thick concrete slab for vessel repairs, and upgraded sand blasting and painting area. The company has added more than fifty specialty craft positions as part of the infrastructure improvement plan.
Signet GOM Expansion Continues & Opens US East Coast Office
Awarded Multi-Vessel Contracts - Containers to Caribbean Ports
Houston, Texas, May 12, 2015— Signet Maritime Corporation has completed Phase II of a $250M capital expansion program with the acquisition and integration of the Harvey Gulf OTV fleet. The corporate strategy was to design and own vessels for multi-disciplinary work, and diversify with the addition of the powerful offshore vessels. This has enabled Signet to broaden its services into new market segments and meet the global needs of our customers.
Continuing this US expansion, Signet has been awarded multi-vessel, long term charters by Trailer Bridge, Inc., an international freight service company, to perform weekly sailings from Jacksonville, Florida to San Juan, Puerto Rico and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. The contracts were brokered through Compass Maritime Services, LLC, specialists in the sale, purchase, and charter of ships and offshore vessels.
The particulars of the towing vessels are as follows:
m/v SIGNET TROJAN, ABS A1, Towing Service, AMS, SOLAS Compliant, 75.70 MTBP m/v SIGNET TITAN, ABS A1, Towing Service, AMS, SOLAS Compliant, 82.81 MTBP m/v SIGNET LIGHTNING, ABS Loadline, Towing Service, 98.76 MTBP
Captain Joel S. Coffey has been appointed to the position of Assistant Manager, Marine Operations, US East Coast & Caribbean in Jacksonville. This Signet office will provide 24-hour customer service with on-site management and control all aspects of the operation. The SIGNET TROJAN, SIGNET TITAN, and SIGNET LIGHTNING underwent a combined $2.3 million in upgrades for these projects. Signet Shipbuilding & Repair provided the labor, refurbishment and management oversight.
Mr. J. Patrick McTigue, Commercial Manager, Director of Business Development, reported, “The expansion into Jacksonville exemplifies Signet’s commitment to going above and beyond in every aspect of our business. We are ensuring that we are there every step of the way to support our customer, our employees, our vendors and continually strive to exceed their expectations. I’m excited to see the partnership between the two companies expand throughout the years.”
Signet Shipyard Delivers EPA Tier 3 ASD Tug
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi, January 26, 2015 — Signet Maritime has taken delivery of its ninth technologically advanced ASD tug in less than four years. The SIGNET VIGILANT was constructed at Signet Shipbuilding & Repair in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The 30 metric tonne bollard pull, EPA Tier 3 compliant, ASD vessel, delivered in Q4 2014, is the first Castleman Maritime design for Signet. The new tug will operate from Signet’s Pascagoula Division, where she will perform rig escort, ship assist and barge assist work.
The SIGNET VIGILANT's compact design will allow Signet operators improved capabilities to assist marine vessels in tight quarters and shallow inland waterways. The environmentally friendly tug will have reduced exhaust and lower fuel consumption to meet EPA Tier 3 marine emission regulations.
At 72 feet in length and with a beam of 28 feet, the SIGNET VIGILANT is powered by two MTU Model 8V-4000 M54 Tier 3 engines delivering a combined total of 2400 BHP at 1800 RPM. The engines drive two Rolls Royce US 155 P12-FP azimuth propulsion units. Electrical power is provided by two John Deere 4045AFM85 EPA Tier 3 engines coupled to 65-KW Marathon Magnaplus™ generators. Deck machinery includes a Markey DEPC-32, 20 HP winch on the bow, and two Patterson WWP40E 40-ton facing winches on the stern. The hawser winch capacity is 525 feet of 6.5-inch circumference Saturn 12™ synthetic line.
Captain Mark Sutera, vessel master of the newest Signet tug reports, “The SIGNET VIGILANT exhibits strength in areas of maneuverability and size. The vessel performs multi-disciplinary work ranging from docking large tankers, drilling rigs, and ATBs, to shifting barges. The lean dimensions allow her to maneuver in tight quarters without compromising the job. She is outfitted with state-of-the-art navigation equipment and first-class accommodations for the captain and crew. While working in the Port of SIGNET VIGILANT, EPA Tier 3 compliant, ASD Tug in the Port of Pascagoula. Pascagoula, the bar pilots favor the SIGNET VIGILANT for her strength and specific capabilities.”
The SIGNET VIGILANT is named after Vigilant, the victorious United States defender of the eighth America’s Cup in 1893. This vessel was designed, built and skippered by Nathanael Greene Herreshoff and was the first of his five victorious America’s Cup defender designs.
Signet currently operates 42 vessels providing marine transportation and logistics services and is expanding its fleet to meet the growing demands from the flurry of activity along the Gulf and East Coasts. The tug will be operated under Signet’s ABS-certified International Safety Management (ISM) and ISO 9001-2008 Quality Management Systems.
Signet Completes First of 3-Part Jacket Tow to Congo
HOUSTON—December 8, 2014—SIGNET WARHORSE II, the powerful 153.58 Metric Tonne bollard pull tug crossed three continents on its journey to Pointe-Noire, Congo on the west coast of Africa. Signet Maritime Corporation was contracted to tow a large cargo barge with critical components for a Saipem installation to support the Eni Litchendjili, and Nene Marine crude oil and gas fields.
The contract was awarded through Socomet Sales, a premier international broker specializing in chartering, sale and purchase, newbuilding of vessels and rigs to support the offshore Oil & Gas exploration and production industry.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Saipem on this transatlantic tow and project in West Africa. Signet is proud to charter one of our most powerful tugs, the SIGNET WARHORSE II to support our respected customer and fulfill their global towing needs,” said Patrick McTigue, assistant manager of business development.”
Traveling at an approximate speed of 5.5 knots, and a total of 6,702 nautical miles, the vessel navigated north of Cuba, along the old Bahama Channel and made one stop in Fortaleza, Brazil to refuel. SIGNET WARHORSE II continued its journey across the Atlantic arriving in the Congo after 52 days. The tug will remain in Congo assisting the project as needed and return to the US Gulf of Mexico with two cargo barges upon completion of the project.
The Nene-Litchendjili project focuses on the drilling and production of natural gas. The gas will be transported to the Djeno Total liquid hydrocarbons terminal. Signet will be assisting the project by not only towing the jacket but by helping position barges for subsea installations. Saipem is estimating production of 73,500 cubic feet of gas per day solely from the Litchendjili, and is eager to assemble all components to begin commercial operations during 2015.
Signet Escorts USS AMERICA on Maiden Voyage
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi July 11,2014 — Signet Maritime Corporation provided ship-assistance for the USS AMERICA, which was on its maiden voyage to its homeport of San Diego, California. The USS AMERICA departed Pascagoula, Mississippi on July 11, 2014 and was escorted by the SIGNET CONSTELLATION, SIGNET RELIANCE, SIGNET VALIANT and SIGNET PURITAN.
USS AMERICA (LHA-6), is the fourth American warship to be named for the United States of America, and is the first of the American-class amphibious assault ships for the U.S. Navy. Her mission is to act as the flagship of an expeditionary strike group or amphibious ready group. The U.S. Navy awarded Ingalls Shipyard Division a $2.4 billion contract for the detailed design and construction of LHA-6 at the company's shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The production decision was made in January 2006 and construction of LHA-6 began in December 2008. In 2012, the vessel was launched on June 4, and christened on October 20.
Huntington Ingalls Industries specializes in building and managing nuclear and conventionally-powered ships for the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. Signet is honored to assist the U.S. Navy and Huntington Ingalls Industries on this project.
Captain G.C. “Cliff” Porter, General Manager, Pascagoula Division says “It was a great day for Ingalls, the City of Pascagoula, and Signet Maritime Corporation when the USS AMERICA departed for her homeport of San Diego, California. All hands at Signet Maritime were grateful to be a part of this monumental and historical event. We are proud to provide Ingalls with tug support for all new construction vessels in the Port of Pascagoula.”
The voyage with stops in Cartagena, Colombia; Rio De Janiero, Brazil; Valparaiso, Chile; and Callo, Peru, took 67 days, maintaining an average speed of 18 knots, and traveling a total of 13,289 nautical miles. The USS AMERICA arrived in San Diego on September 15, 2014.
Signet Transports Second LLOG Rig to Gulf of Mexico
HOUSTON—September 29, 2014—On September 14, five Signet Maritime ASD/Z-Drive tugboats, the SIGNET ENTERPRISE, SIGNET RELIANCE, SIGNET MAGIC, SIGNET WEATHERLY, and SIGNET VOLUNTEER successfully completed the Towout of LLOG’s DELTA HOUSE semisubmersible production facility to the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. In June 2011, Signet also assisted with LLOG’s highly successful OPTI-EX Floating Production System (FPS) for the Who Dat development field located in Mississippi Canyon 503/504/547.
Captain Jeet Kar, CEO of Marine Contracting LLC, said of the job, “The tugs not only maneuvered and escorted DELTA HOUSE safely outside of the jetties, the captains made me feel comfortable by willingly ‘staying on’ in heavy seas till such time all the ocean tugs were hooked up.”
Signet’s International Operations Complex located in Ingleside, Texas was responsible for assisting with the arrival of each hull on a heavy lift vessel (HLV), offload in the deep hole, lifts & sets, stability (incline) testing, and sail-out. Signet Masters participated in a series of Major Project Risk Assessment (MPRA) meetings to carefully prepare for every evolution of the project. “The diversity and depth of our fleet allowed our customer to select the proper mix and configuration for each scope of work” said J. Barry Snyder,President. Snyder added, “Signet was honored to participate in the record breaking 10,400 short ton lift, executed by Kiewit Offshore Services Heavy Lift Device (HLD). Our Captains carefully studied the dynamic placement of this very intense, heavy truss, and enabled the lift and set to be completed in less than five hours from hull positioning to full release of the topsides.”
Tugboat specifications for the vessels involved in this Towout are attached.
Signet Awarded Tow of Aircraft Carrier USS SARATOGA
HOUSTON—August 21, 2014—The final voyage of aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA begins today. From the Eastern Hemisphere to the Western Hemisphere, the USS SARATOGA has made her mark around the globe, and served more than 38 years in the United States Navy. The carrier’s aircraft flew sorties in the Vietnam War, in Operation Desert Shield and over the states of the former Yugoslavia in 1992. Throughout its four decades of service, more than 60,000 sailors served on its decks, with roughly 5,000 at any given time.
Setting sail August 21st, USS SARATOGA will be towed to ESCO Marine where her 59,000 tons of steel will be recycled. The Navy awarded ESCO Marine of Brownsville, Texas the disassembling and recycling of the carrier and during this time, the aircraft carrier is still owned by the Navy with ESCO taking ownership of the scrap metal during the dismantling.
Signet Maritime Corporation has the distinct honor to tow the USS SARATOGA on her final journey. The Offshore Towing Vessel, SIGNET WARHORSE III, is a 143’5” x 50’ x 18’ ABS Fully Classed tug with 10,000 brake horsepower and 135.44 Metric Tonnes bollard pull. The tow will originate in Newport, Rhode Island and end in Brownsville, Texas.
Signet is applying its “Bundling” project management to incorporate seagoing and harbor assist all under one umbrella. The estimated voyage will take 15 days maintaining a speed of 6 knots and traveling a total of 2,120 nautical miles.
Signet Maritime’s nine-person crew departed Signet’s ocean transport base in Port Fourchon, Louisiana on August 5, 2014, completing a Major Project Risk Assessment (MPRA) upon arrival. She is expected to arrive in Brownsville, Texas, with USS SARATOGA in tow, on September 4, 2014
Signet Maritime Expands Offshore Fleet with state-of-the-art Tractor SIGNET ARCTURUS
HOUSTON—June 16, 2014—Adding to its fleet of 37 conventional and ASD vessels, Signet Maritime Corporation took ownership of its ninth newly constructed tractor tug in six years. SIGNET ARCTURUS, a 105’ x 38’ Z-Drive, designed by Robert Allan Ltd. of Vancouver, British Columbia was delivered by Patti Marine Enterprises of Pensacola, Florida on May 25, 2014.
SIGNET ARCTURUS is powered by two Caterpillar model C175-16 main engines, each rated 3417 BHP at 1800 RPM. The engines are coupled to two Rolls-Royce US 255 CP azimuth thrusters via carbon fiber shafting, providing thrust for ABS certified sustained bollard pull of 83.45 metric tonnes. All Caterpillar mains and John Deere 6068TFM76 generator engines aboard the vessel are U.S. EPA Tier 3 certified for reduced emissions.
Joseph W. Dahl, Vice President, Signet Maritime said “this technologically advanced newbuild complements Signet’s offshore towing, rig escort and subsea expansion.” SIGNET ARCTURUS will be joined by her sister, SIGNET POLARIS, a second ocean towing tractor tug, scheduled for delivery later this month from Patti Marine. Both tugs will be based at Signet’s Ocean Towing Division in Port Fourchon, Louisiana for service to the offshore energy industry. Further, Dahl said, “Bundling the controllable pitch propeller (CPP) tractor technology with the brute strength of SIGNET WARHORSE tugs will provide our customers the best of both worlds in strength and agility.”
The vessel is equipped with fire resistant wheelhouse windows for servicing LNG and drilling platforms to ensure safety of the crew in case of fire hazard. It is USCG Inspected and is certified ABS International Air Pollution Prevention, International Oil Pollution Prevention and International Energy Efficiency for environmental compliance. Deck machinery includes a Markey model DEPCF-52S, 75 HP electric bow winch and Markey model TESD-34, 100 HP electric double-drum towing winch. The bow winch contains 650 feet of 3-inch diameter synthetic line and the towing winch contains 2 ¼” x 2500’ tow wire and one 2 ¼” x 1500’ tow wire. SIGNET ARCTURUS is ABS Maltese Cross A1, Towing Vessel, Escort Vessel, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1, Maltese Cross AMS.
With the inclusion of the ARCTURUS and the POLARIS, the Offshore Towing Division has increased its fleet to ten OTVs, equipping Signet to provide energy service companies with high bollard pull towing and marine movements from harbor to offshore throughout the Gulf of Mexico.
Signet Maritime Acquires Harvey Gulf OTV Fleet; Commits to Tier 3 Upgrades
HOUSTON—May 16, 2014—Signet Maritime Corporation, a global marine transportation provider, today announced it has completed its acquisition of eight Harvey Gulf International Marine offshore towing vessels (OTVs) ranging in size from 153 to 75 metric tonnes bollard pull. The sale will encompass all Harvey OTVs, spares, business and supplies. Signet has committed to retention of all crewmembers and plans for Tier 3 Generation of power onboard all eight tugs with conversions starting immediately.
The purchase expands Signet’s vessel classes and allows the Company to broaden its service, offering over 38 ASD tractor and conventional vessels to customers in the Gulf of Mexico and worldwide. When combined, the modern fleet under Signet ownership and operation will average 11 years of age. “The combination of Harvey and Signet follows a thorough due diligence process and is fully consistent with our strategy of being a “one-stop turnkey” source for all our customers’ needs,” stated J. Barry Snyder, Signet’s President. Further, he commented, “This acquisition will accelerate our growth plans and we are very excited to welcome the talented and hardworking employees of Harvey OTVs to the Signet team.”
Shane J. Guidry, Chairman & CEO, Harvey Gulf said, “Our two companies share a strong culture of entrepreneurship and a focus on quality and service to the customer. I look forward to seeing the talented people of Harvey and Signet work together as we continue to fulfill our commitment to meet all our customer needs.”
Since 1976, Signet has been a preeminent maritime transportation source for quality vessels. The Company specializes in rig moves, towing, ship assist and escort, vessel design, new vessel construction, repair and maintenance. Keeping the Company at the forefront of technology in the maritime industry, Signet was one of the first to incorporate EPA Tier 3 engines into all its vessel designs. Most recently, Signet’s ASD reverse tractor tugs participated in the safe movements of Shell OLYMPUS, Chevron’s JACK & ST. MALO, Anadarko’s LUCIUS, and Chevron’s BIG FOOT.
The addition of the eight ocean-class offshore towing vessels enhances Signet’s high-performance fleet and enables it to provide ocean towing of semi-submersible, jack-up drilling rigs, TLPs, anchor handling, and subsea pipeline installation support.
The transfer of OTV ownership was completed on May 15, 2014 in New Orleans, Louisiana with financing provided by Wells Fargo Equipment Finance as part of a $209 million syndicated financing facility. All vessels are scheduled for Tier 3 upgrade and refurbishment at Signet Shipbuilding & Repair in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Signet will continue to maintain its Offshore Towing Division operations from Port Fourchon, Louisiana.
The purchase of the powerful bollard pull ABS classed towing vessels includes:
SIGNET WARHORSE I –152.63 metric tonnes
SIGNET WARHORSE II –153.58 metric tonnes
SIGNET WARHORSE III –135.44 metric tonnes
SIGNET LIGHTNING – 98.76 metric tonnes
SIGNET THUNDER – 89.74 metric tonnes
SIGNET INTRUDER – 86.98 metric tonnes
SIGNET TITAN – 82.81 metric tonnes
SIGNET TROJAN – 75.70 metric tonnes
Signet’s Infrastructure Investment Positions Shipyard for Growth
HOUSTON—Jan. 13, 2014 —Signet Maritime Corporation is investing $7.2 million in infrastructure improvements to their Pascagoula, Mississippi shipyard, Signet Shipbuilding & Repair (SS&R) to support an increased workload and future growth. In addition to the recent acquisition of the 150-ton crawler crane, the shipyard facility modernization includes the dredging and renewal of a 1000-foot waterfront bulkhead, a new fabrication shop, expanded drydock and concrete base for vessel repairs, and improved sand blasting and painting area. SS&R specializes in the new construction, repair, maintenance and refurbishment of tugs, workboats and barges.
With a new Tractor Tug under construction and numerous repair projects, SS&R has experienced steady growth in their Pascagoula operations. The company has added more than thirty specialty craft positions, and as part of the infrastructure improvement plan, promoted Joseph W. Dahl to Vice President & General Manager of SS&R.
President J. Barry Snyder, Signet Maritime Corporation, comments, “Joe has worked with Signet in various capacities for nearly two decades. Through his hard work, dedication, and commitment to quality maintenance and construction, it was only natural that he be promoted to vice president of our growing Shipyard. Mr. Dahl has been integral to the expansion, overall growth and implementation of Tier III propulsion and power generation technology to our marine assets.”
With a Marine Engineering degree from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Dahl has over thirty years’ experience in the industry sailing as a Chief Engineer and working with marine vessels in maintenance, repair and new construction. His experience includes seagoing ships, ocean-going ASD tractor tugs, harbor tugs, inland boats, and barges working both as an owner’s and shipyard representative. During his tenure with Signet Maritime, Dahl’s expertise has been key in upgrading the engineering and overseeing the construction of twelve (12) vessels, including Signet’s newest fleet of EPA Tier III Generation Tugs.
Signet Construction of ASD Tug
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi,—Oct. 21, 2013 —Construction of Signet Maritime’s seventh ASD tug in less than four years, M/V SIGNET VIGILANT is underway at Signet Shipbuilding & Repair in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The 30 metric ton bollard pull, EPA Tier III, ASD vessel will be the first Castleman Maritime design for Signet with delivery slated for July 2014. The new tug will operate from Signet’s International Operations Center in Ingleside, Texas where it will perform rig escort, ship, and barge assist work.
The design and size will allow Signet operators improved capabilities and maneuverability to assist marine vessels in tight quarters in the shallow depth inland waterways. The environmentally friendly tug will have lower emissions and reduced fuel consumption to meet EPA Tier III marine emission regulations. Signet currently operates 32 vessels providing marine transportation and logistics services and is expanding their fleet to meet the growing demand from the flurry of activity along the Texas Gulf Coast.
At 72 feet in length and with a beam of 28 feet, the M/V SIGNET VIGILANT will be powered by two MTU Model 8V-4000 M54 Tier III engines, rated at 1200 BHP at 1800 RPM. The engines drive two Rolls Royce US 155 P12-FP azimuth propulsion units. The package will provide an estimated bollard pull of 30 metric tons. Deck machinery includes a Markey DEPC-32, 20 HP winch on the bow, and two Patterson WWP40E 40-ton facing winches on the stern. The hawser winch capacity is 525 feet of 6.5-inch circumference synthetic line.
Signet Expands Shipyard Capability with New 150-Ton Crawler Crane
HOUSTON—30 SEPT 2013—Signet Shipbuilding & Repair, (SS&R) a division of Signet Maritime Corporation announced the purchase and operation commencement of its newest heavy lift crane for new construction and repair. The 150-ton crawler crane will be utilized for hauling small vessels and barges from the water, and loading/offloading marine equipment while vessels are dockside.
Signet Shipbuilding & Repair specializes in new construction, repair, maintenance and refurbishment of tugs, workboats and barges. With the recently awarded new vessel construction and repair projects, the crane will increase productivity and safety in the yard’s day-to-day operations. In addition to vessel movement, the crane will enable the shipyard to fabricate several large modules simultaneously, thus making assembly of the units more efficient and cost-effective.
The Link Belt Model 238 HSL crawler crane has a main boom length of 110 feet; a 30 foot fixed jib range, and a maximum tip height of 140 feet. SS&R is a full service shipyard with covered fabrication, electrical, carpentry, and machine shops. They have the capacity to dry dock up to nine vessels and are available for service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The shipyard operates a 600-ton Marine Travelift fully capable of dry docking and performing underwater repair. The addition of the highly functioning crane supports Signet’s ongoing commitment to the highest safety standards while maintaining operational competitiveness and quality vessel construction. Signet Shipbuilding & Repair is expanding and adding capabilities to their shipyard facilities to better serve the towing and marine transportation industry in the Gulf Coast area from Texas to Florida.
Signet Delivers Newest ASD Tug M/V SIGNET MAGIC
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi—30 JUL 2013—Signet Maritime Corporation announced delivery of its newest vessel, a Robert Allan designed AZ 25/60 Class towing and escort tug, M/V SIGNET MAGIC, on July 26, 2013 from Signet Shipbuilding & Repair, Pascagoula, Mississippi. This Signet owned state-of-the-art ASD will be used at multiple Gulf of Mexico locations for harbor assist, and ship and rig escort, designed specifically to work under limited maneuvering conditions.
M/V SIGNET MAGIC was christened Friday, July 26, 2013 in the Port of Pascagoula. Mrs. Brenda Dahl, wife of Mr. Joseph Dahl, General Manager, Signet Shipbuilding & Repair, Pascagoula, was the Christening Sponsor.
“This 61.4 metric ton bollard pull tractor tug will be immediately inserted into our expanding energy services and harbor escort division to enhance our high-tech fleet of tugs where we enjoy an average fleet age of 6.5 years,” said Signet Maritime President, J. Barry Snyder.
The highly maneuverable and powerful Z-Drive is built under the direction of ABS to the Load Line Convention Rules. Measuring 80’ (24.38m) by 36’ (10.97m) by 15’11” (4.85m) with ABS Certified 61.4 tonnes of bollard pull, the tug is powered by a pair of EPA Tier III Caterpillar Model 3516C diesel engines producing a total 5,150 BHP at 1600 RPM with two fixed pitch Rolls-Royce model US205 Z-Drives.
She is outfitted with a Markey DEPCF-48 electric bow hawser winch and a DEPC-32 deck winch on the stern, two (2) John Deere 125kW, 60Hz, 480V generators and a remote off vessel fire-fighting system. The tug also features accommodations for five (5) in three (3) staterooms, a modern galley and state-of-the-art wheelhouse complete with electronic chart display, log desk and controls, instrumentation, navigation aids, 360 degree sliding pilot chair, and new design rubber roll suppression devices.
Signet’s fleet expansion construction program is on schedule with three additional tractors for coastal and offshore towing to be delivered in Q1 and Q2 of 2014. Snyder noted, “These new vessels, combined with our highly trained seagoing personnel and Signet’s dual simulator on-site training facilities, provide our customers with the leading edge of marine transport services. Over the past three years, we have invested $156 million in new marine assets and infrastructure to better serve our marine operations.”
M/V SIGNET MAGIC departed Signet Shipbuilding on her maiden voyage to Ingleside, Texas where she will be homeported at Signet’s International Operations Center. The tug will be operated under Signet’s ABS-certified International Safety Management (ISM) and ISO 9001-2008 Quality Management Systems.
American Equity Underwriters Honors Signet Shipbuilding & Repair
Pascagoula, Mississippi—16 JAN 2013—On Thursday, November 1, 2012, American Equity Underwriters (AEU) presented Signet Shipbuilding & Repair (SS&R) with their 2011 Safety & Health Best Shipyard Award. The award recognizes the shipyard that is superior among all other shipyards in terms of claim frequency and severity performance among all AEU members. Signet received recognition within the small shipyard category and credits the achievement to making safety a priority at every organizational level. The AEU Safety Award is confirmation that Signet continues to be a safety leader in the maritime industry and is dedicated to protecting all employees from injury or death.
Signet Shipbuilding Delivers New 140’ x 40’ Heavy Deck Barge
Pascagoula, Mississippi—31 DEC 2012—In May of 2012, Signet Maritime Corporation commenced construction of a new-build 140’ x 40’ deck barge, SIGNET 141, at its Signet Shipbuilding & Repair division. The barge, designed by Farrell and Norton Naval Architects of Newcastle, Maine, will provide an additional asset to assist customers in the growing Port of Pascagoula, where it will be based for charter throughout ports in the US Gulf.
The barge has an LOA of 140’, beam of 40’, molded depth of 9’, a light draft of 1’5” and will handle 800 long tons of cargo with deck strength of 2,000 lbs/sq. ft. This improved design will afford Signet the opportunity to assist with movement of cargo in the Port and surrounding areas.
The SIGNET 141 was christened on December 20, 2012 and represents a continuation of added strength designs built at the Signet Shipbuilding & Repair Pascagoula facility.
“We are pleased to have committed this contract to our shipyard facility in Pascagoula and they have once again proven their reliability and quality construction practices in building superior marine vessels,” says J. Barry Snyder, Signet’s President. “I was in the shipyard almost every day during construction and I can report first-hand that the attention to detail and adherence to strict quality procedures is the key reason for Signet’s confidence in our facility.”
Signet Continues Gulf Coast Fleet Expansion
Pascagoula, Mississippi—12 DEC 2012—Signet Maritime Corporation continues to expand its diverse fleet by awarding a contract for the construction of two Robert Allan Ltd. designed tugs to Patti Marine Enterprises, Inc. in Pensacola, Florida. This marks the ninth Signet/Robert Allan Ltd. design in 5 years. Construction commenced in November 2012 with an expected delivery of December 2013 for the first vessel and March 2014 for the second vessel. Continuing the longstanding Signet tradition of naming vessels in honor of America’s Cup winners, the new RAmparts 3200 ASD tugs will be named M/V SIGNET INTREPID and M/V SIGNET VIGILANT.
These vessels are the fifth and sixth ASD tugboats delivered for Signet in less than three years and will operate from the International Operations Center in Ingleside, Texas, where they will primarily be used to perform offshore and inshore rig escort, barge, and subsea support work.
Once again, Signet reaffirms its commitment to building environmentally conscious tugboats that will adhere to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Tier III emissions regulations. The tugs will also feature C175-16 CAT engines, Markey Model DEPCF-52S winch, and Rolls Royce US 255 controllable pitch Z-drives. With 83 tons of Bollard Pull, these vessels will be powerful and offer improved reliability to handle the expanding needs of the marine transportation industry.
Signet Awards Robert Allan Ltd. 8th Contract in 5 Years
Pascagoula, Mississippi—19 NOV 2012—Signet Maritime Corporation is pleased to announce awarding the Vancouver-based design firm of Robert Allan Ltd. Naval Architects and Marine Engineers its eighth contract in five years. Acknowledging the unprecedented success of the Signet/Robert Allan Ltd. relationship, the new contract is for an ASD 24/60 tractor tug; building began at Signet Shipbuilding & Repair, Pascagoula, Mississippi in September 2012.
The 60 Metric Ton Bollard Pull, EPA Tier III, Tractor Tug is the fourth ASD Tug by Signet in 12 months. The new vessel— M/V SIGNET MAGIC—will operate from the Pascagoula, Mississippi area, where it will primarily perform ship assist, rig escort, barge, and subsea support work.
“We are pleased that the longstanding partnership we have with Robert Allan has provided us the opportunity to build yet another high performance tugboat in the Gulf of Mexico,” says J. Barry Snyder, President of Signet Maritime Corporation. “Their state-of-the-art design and engineering, which evolves continually to meet our requirements to best serve the needs of the market and our customers, is why Signet has continuing confidence in Robert Allan Ltd. as a leading naval architectural firm.”
M/V SIGNET MAGIC’s design and size will allow Signet improved capabilities and maneuverability to assist marine vessels in tight quarters in the Pascagoula Harbor. The environmentally friendly tug will feature lower emissions and reduced fuel consumption to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s Tier III marine emissions regulations for all propulsion and electrical generating equipment. This is the third tug built by Signet that meets these marine emissions requirements.
Signet to Deliver and Christen New RAmparts 3200 ASD Tug M/V SIGNET WEATHERLY
Ingleside, Texas—7 MAR 2012—Signet Maritime Corporation is pleased to announce that its newest tug, a Robert Allan designed RAmparts 3200 Class ocean towing and escort tug, M/V SIGNET WEATHERLY, will be delivered on 10 March 2012 from Signet Shipbuilding & Repair in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This state-of-the-art ASD will be used in Signet’s U.S. Gulf of Mexico operations. Signet will own and operate the vessel in support of its Offshore Towing Division and its expanding US Gulf and overseas harbor, ship assist, deep offshore and ocean rig transport business.
M/V SIGNET WEATHERLY will be christened on Saturday 10 March 2012 at 10:30 am in Port of Corpus Christi, Texas; Mrs. Lori Sezer—wife of Mr. Fuat Sezer, President, Kiewit Offshore Services, Ltd., Ingleside, Texas—is the christening sponsor. The ceremony at the Solomon P. Ortiz International Center will be followed by a luncheon.
By popular vote among Signet employees, the name M/V SIGNET WEATHERLY was chosen for this newest vessel after the 1962 America’s Cup winner, Weatherly. Signet’s President, Mr. J. Barry Snyder recounts, “One of the most graceful and swift of all 12 Meter America’s Cup’s yachts, Weatherly, built in 1958, took the honors in the ’62 bid. A legacy like this is one of the reasons we are proud to name the Signet fleet after these amazing vessels. SIGNET WEATHERLY will be just as graceful and just as tough, handling our customers’ needs in all circumstances. SIGNET WEATHERLY sea trials, held last week, bear witness to the standard Signet Maritime Corporation sets and upholds. We are proud to press her into service.”
The highly maneuverable and efficient SIGNET WEATHERLY is built to American Bureau of Shipping Maltese Cross A1 Towing & Escort Service and Maltese Cross AMS standards. Measuring 108’ (32.92m) by 40’4” (12.29m) by 17’8” (5.38m) and with an estimated 60 tonnes of bollard pull, the vessel is powered by a pair of MTU Model 16V4000 M60 diesel engines producing a total 4,720 BHP at 1800 RPM to aft-mounted ZP31 Niigata Z-Peller drives.
She is outfitted with a Markey 100HP TESD-32 electric towing winch and a Markey 50 HP DEPCF-48 electric hawser winch, two (2) John Deere 99kW, 60Hz, 480V generators and a remote operated FIFI system. The tug also features accommodations for 10, with five (5) staterooms, a modern galley and state-of-the-art wheelhouse complete with chart table, log desk and controls, instrumentation, GMDSS, and navigation aids and sliding pilot chair.
M/V SIGNET WEATHERLY will be homeported at Signet’s International Operations Center in Ingleside, Texas and will enter service immediately following the Christening. In addition, the tug will be operated under Signet’s ABS-certified International Safety Management (ISM) and ISO 9001-2008 Quality Management Systems.
M/V SIGNET STARS & STRIPES and M/V SIGNET CONSTELLATION Christened
GULFPORT, Mississippi—12 OCT 2011—Trinity Offshore, LLC and Signet Maritime Corporation christened M/V SIGNET STARS & STRIPES and M/V SIGNET CONSTELLATION yesterday at the Trinity Shipyard in Gulfport, Mississippi. This extraordinary affair included many of Signet Maritime’s and Trinity Offshore’s valued customers and employees in addition to many local, state and national political figures.
The Christenings occurred at 10:30 A.M. Mrs. Gayle L. Wicker, wife of The Honorable Roger F. Wicker, United States Senator, Tupelo, Mississippi, christened the M/V SIGNET STARS & STRIPES. Immediately following, Mrs. Tara E. Hauhe, wife of Mr. William E. Hauhe, General Manager, Angola LNG Supply Services LLC, Houston, Texas, christened M/V SIGNET CONSTELLATION.
“The skies over Mississippi will be brighter when Signet Maritime Corporation puts its two new escort tugs to work next month,” said United States Senator, Roger Wicker, during the vessels' christenings.
The program included a speech by Signet Maritime’s President and Owner, Mr. J. Barry Snyder notating the importance these tugs bring to Mississippi Shipbuilding and Gulf of Mexico LNG services. The technologically advanced tugs are specifically designed and engineered to offer superior ship-handling, escort, and sea-keeping performance and incorporate cutting edge design, leading the way in marine vessel service provided to LNG carriers.
Luncheon at Latitude 30° Restaurant on Gulfport Lake followed the shipyard ceremonies.
The M/V SIGNET CONSTELLATION, Trinity Hull TO-22, was launched on September 7, 2011 and yesterday’s christening of M/V SIGNET STARS & STRIPES, Trinity Hull TO-23, marked her official launch.
Both tugs are 100’ (30.48m) RAstar 3100 Class Terminal Support/Escort Tugs, built for Signet Maritime Corporation’s U.S. Gulf of Mexico operations and will provide marine services to Angola LNG Supply Services (ALSS) in the Port of Pascagoula, Mississippi. The Robert Allan Ltd. designed ASD tugs are built to American Bureau of Shipping Maltese Cross A1 Towing & Escort Service, Fire Fighting Class 1 (Fi-Fi 1) and Maltese Cross AMS standards. The vessels will be operated under Signet Maritime’s ABS-certified International Safety Management (ISM) and ISO 9001-2008 Quality Management Systems. In addition, these vessels are the first EPA Tier III, EU Stage IIIA, and IMO Marine Tier III vessels to be built and operated in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.
Signet Maritime Vessels Complete Series of Rig Moves
HOUSTON, Texas–31 MAR 2011—Signet Maritime Corporation announced the successful completion of transportation, delivery and loadout of two rigs. Signet provided full turnkey operations for the movement of the Rubicone H-191 from Sabine, Texas to Kiewit Offshore Services, Ingleside, Texas. The m/v SIGNET ENTERPRISE with 4,400BHP, 62.6MT Bollard pull ahead, 53.5MT bollard pull astern and the m/v SIGNET INTREPID with 4,400BHP, 60.3MT bollard pull ahead, 54.7MT bollard pull astern, were utilized as the primary towing tugs for the project. The at-sea tow was accomplished flawlessly in four days. "The towing speed at 3.8 knots was excellent given the time of year and sea conditions," commented Jackie Yardley, Signet Maritime's Senior Manager of Global Traffic and Rig Transport.
Complete marine services were also provided for the movement and delivery of the Veer Prem MOPU, from Galveston, Texas to Kiewit Offshore Services, Ingleside, Texas. Signet once again deployed their flagship vessels, the m/v's SIGNET ENTERPRISE and SIGNET INTREPID, along with the chase boat m/v SANTA ROSA.
Upon arrival at the Aransas Sea Buoy, Signet utilized additional vessels from their fleet to provide inbound assistance and loadout services onto a Heavy Load Vessel (HLV) at Kiewit for both transportation projects. Upon completion of loadout, Signet provided cribbing and sea-fastening for the rig Veer Prem.
Major Project Risk Assessment and constant direct weather forecasting were provided throughout the duration of both projects.
New EPA Tier III Compliant Engines to be Installed on Signet Maritime's ASD Tugs for LNG
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi— 21 MAR 2011—Signet Maritime Corporation announced they are the first to install the Cat® C175 ACERT 16-cylinder main propulsion diesel engines rated at 3417 BHP each on their two support/escort tugs being built in Gulfport, MS. These engines represent the next generation in technology for addressing the needs of emissions and hazardous location applications and meet offshore emissions requirements, including EPA Tier III, EU Stage IIIA, and IMO Marine Tier II. The Robert Allan Ltd. Designed RAstar 3100 class tugs are engineered to provide superior ship handling, escort, and sea-keeping performance. Slated for an October 2011 delivery, these highly specialized terminal support/escort tugs will provide marine services for Angola LNG Supply Services (ALSS) vessels into the Port of Pascagoula.
J. Barry Snyder, president of Signet Maritime, stated, "A vital evolution for this decade is the initiation of Tier III environmental protection with internal combustion engines and we are the first to install the new Cat C175-16 EPA Tier III engines on ASD tugs." Signet is a strong proponent of using green technology and protecting the environment; using these new engines will result in lower emissions, improved performance, and reduced fuel consumption.
The new engines accomplish this with the support of the Cat ACERT technology, which is a combination of advanced electronics/monitoring systems, increased engine efficiencies through computer aided design, and modernized common rail fuel injection systems.
Signet Expands with Colle Acquisition, More Tugs and Shipyard
HOUSTON, Texas—13 JUL 2010—Signet Maritime Corporation, a marine transportation and logistics company, continues to grow with their recent purchase of Colle Towing Company's assets and business operations. Since 1878, Colle Towing Company Inc., Pasacagoula MS has been providing offshore, harbor and intracoastal marine towing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Assets and personnel in Pascagoula will begin operations immediately under the new name, Colle Maritime Company, a Division of Signet Maritime Corporation. The company operates tugs for the Port of Pascagoula in both the Bayou Casotte and Pascagoula River Ports and operates a full-service shipyard and 600 ton Travelift for repair of vessels and barges. Signet and Colle were recently awarded a twenty-year contract to provide marine services to Angola LNG Supply Services (ALSS) in the Port of Pascagoula, Mississippi. The agreement, to commence third quarter 2011, includes options to extend for up to ten additional years.
J. Barry Snyder, president and chief executive officer of the combined companies said, "Through this transaction we have strengthened our company, added depth to our fleet and fortified our position in the Port of Pascagoula. Its been a busy year for us with the ALSS LNG contract, the acquisition of Colle, and the construction of three new tugs–two for LNG and one ASD here at Colle Shipbuilding & Repair, also a division of Signet Maritime Corporation. The same proud service which Colle has provided for over 100 years will be maintained by Colle Maritime and enhanced by Signet's ISO 9001:2008 · ISM · STCW 95 · MTSA ·AWO - RCP certifications by the end of October 2010."
"We are pleased to report all Colle employees have been offered employment with Colle Maritime and have accepted." Further, Snyder said, "Signet will continue to expand its international marine transportation and logistics services, with concentration in the Americas, Africa and Middle East."
Signet Maritime has facilities in Houston, TX; Pascagoula, MS; Morgan City, LA; Ingleside, TX; Brownsville, TX; Dubai UAE, and Brazil SA. Signet's fleet now includes 32 owned and bareboat vessels, including ocean and harbor tugs, 2 ocean heavy lift deck barges, 3 inland deck barges and 3 ASD tugs under construction.
Trinity to Build Two Escort Tugs For Colle and Signet
GULFPORT, Mississippi—28 APR 2010—Trinity Offshore, LLC is pleased to announce that Colle and Signet have signed contracts worth over $27 million to build two 6,800 HP, 80 metric ton bollard pull terminal support/escort tugs. Colle Maritime Company, a joint venture between Colle Towing Company and Signet Maritime Corporation, will operate the vessels to provide marine services to Angola LNG Supply Services (ALSS) at the Port of Pascagoula, Mississippi. The tugs will be built over 17 months at Trinity Offshore's Gulfport, Mississippi shipyard with deliveries planned for September of 2011.
Designed by Robert Allan Ltd, of Vancouver, B.C., these RAstar 3100 class Escort Tugs are specifically designed and engineered to offer truly superior ship-handling, escort, and sea-keeping performance in comparison to more conventional tug designs. The tugs incorporate cutting edge design and technological features to safely assist LNG tankers, oil tankers and cargo vessels calling at the LNG, oil refinery and other dry cargo terminals in Pascagoula.
The tugs will be built entirely under cover at Trinity Offshore's 60-acre facility in Gulfport, Mississippi. This state-of-the-art shipyard is shared with Trinity Yachts, LLC, an affiliated company with Trinity Offshore. Trinity Offshore owners and key personnel have a long history in building state-of-the-art tugs, offshore vessels and patrol craft. Building these tugs under cover will ensure the highest quality standards are met and an on time delivery achieved.
Measuring 100 ft. (30.5 m) by 40 ft. (12.2 m) each, these two state-of-the-art ASD tugs will be built to American Bureau of Shipping Maltese Cross A1 Towing & Escort Service, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 (Fi-Fi1), and Maltese Cross AMS standards. They will be operated under Colle Maritime's ABS-certified International Safety Management (ISM) and ISO 9001-2008 Quality Management Systems.
Angola LNG Awards Colle Maritime 20 Year Contract
HOUSTON, Texas—26 April 2010—Colle Maritime Company of Pascagoula Mississippi, a joint venture between Signet Maritime Corporation and Colle Towing Company, has been awarded a twenty-year contract to provide marine services to Angola LNG Supply Services LLC (ALSS) in the Port of Pascagoula, Mississippi. The agreement, to commence third quarter 2011, includes options to extend for up to ten additional years.
Utilizing their combined expertise, the joint venture between Colle and Signet will construct two highly specialized terminal support/escort tugs that will each provide 80 metric tonnes of bollard pull. Designed by Robert Allan Ltd., these RAstar 3100 class tugs were designed and engineered to offer truly superior ship-handling, escort, and sea-keeping performance in comparison to any more conventional style of tug. Construction will commence immediately at Trinity Offshore in Gulfport, Mississippi. Both tugs will be built to American Bureau of Shipping Maltese Cross A1 Towing & Escort Service, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 (Fi-Fi 1), and Maltese Cross AMS standards. Additional tugs from the existing Signet and Colle fleets will complement these primary tugs.
"I am very pleased with the partnership developed with Signet Maritime to operate the LNG tugs in Pascagoula," said John Colle, President of Colle Towing Company. "The diverse experience of both companies is a very good match for this venture. Colle Tugs has been operating in the Port of Pascagoula since 1878 and we have an impeccable record of providing excellent service to our customers. The addition of these powerful tugs should open doors for future expansion in the Port of Pascagoula. I am proud the new tugs will be built in Mississippi and operated by Mississippians," Colle added.
"We are pleased to be entrusted with the safe handling of the LNG vessels into Pascagoula," said J. Barry Snyder, President of Signet Maritime. "Safety and the environment are our absolute priorities. This contract is in recognition of the tremendous operating and safety record our company enjoys, fostered by the hard work of every Signet employee without whom our success would never be possible. I am truly proud," he added.
"John Colle and I studied the engineering needs of our customer to build a superior machine for this specific project," Snyder stated. "A team of technically advanced professionals was commissioned to develop a comprehensive plan to enhance safety and increase efficiency of the marine services required to support ALSS in Pascagoula. We are very grateful to Robert Allan Ltd., Naval Architects for their support to develop the new RAstar 3100 class tugs, tailored to offer truly exceptional ship-handling, escort, and sea-keeping performance," Snyder added.
Colle Shipyard Awarded Contract for new Signet Maritime ASD Tug
HOUSTON, Texas—04 JAN 2010—John H. Colle, Jr., President of Colle Towing Company, Inc., Pascagoula, Mississippi, announced that Signet Maritime Corporation has awarded a new-build contract to Colle Shipyard for construction of SIGNET WEATHERLY, a Robert Allan designed RAmparts 3200 105'x38'x17.7' (32.0m x 11.6m x 5.4m) ASD tug. The vessel will be built and classed to ABS Maltese Cross, AMS, Ocean Towing Service standards. She will be employed in Signet's expanding US Gulf and overseas harbor, ship assist and ocean rig transport businesses.
J. Barry Snyder, President of Signet Maritime, stated "We chose Colle Shipbuilding for its quality engineering and shipbuilding work and previous construction of the Robert Allan design. We are very pleased to have cut steel and begun construction of this technologically advanced vessel. The raised forecastle and gentle sheer along with its MTU high performance engines and Niigata Z-drives give this tug a decided advantage for in–harbor assist and ocean towing. With her state of the art wheelhouse, advanced telemetry, communications and electronics, sophisticated electrical distribution system, highly advanced Markey electric hawser and double drum tow winches she will serve Signet's rigorous multi-purpose rig-transport demands. She is designed for more than 60 Metric Tons Continuous Bollard Pull for intricate rig work and ocean towing and set up to bunk ten seamen." When delivered in Spring 2011, the ASD will be the seventh tractor added to Signet's fleet to support international operations for vessel assist, escort, rig transport, ocean towing and deep offshore energy development. John H. Colle, Jr., Colle Towing and Shipyard president said "This is a great day for Colle to commence another Robert Allan design for construction here in Pascagoula. We are proud of our 131 year reputation for quality and excellence and we will devote our strict attention to this new tug."
By popular vote among Signet employees, the name chosen for the new tug, M/V SIGNET WEATHERLY, was the 1962 winner of the Americas Cup. Snyder recounts, "During her races, she proved to be a staunch, tough competitor, and we will hold her namesake to no less a commitment. She will be a proud warrior, serving our customers well with a higher standard than ever before."
SIGNET CONTRACTS WITH NIIGATA FOR Z-DRIVE TECHNOLOGY
Signet orders Z-drives for new SIGNET INTREPID
HOUSTON, Texas—April 14, 2009—Signet Maritime Corporation announced contracts with Niigata Power Systems Co. Ltd. of Japan to use Niigata's Z-drive technology. Following on the heels of a successful delivery of two J. M. Martinac built tractors, m/v AMERICA and m/v PACIFIC STAR, Signet has ordered the Niigata Z-Peller Model ZP31 2-4 blade NIBRAL RG180K for its new tug, the m/v SIGNET INTREPID. Delivery is expected in the first quarter of 2010.
Niigata was chosen for its quality, service, and performance. The maneuverability of the Signet fleet is attributed to the emphasis Signet places on creating a stable platform for the integration of the topsides of rigs.
