Moran Towing Corporation, New Canaan, Conn., christened its newest tugboat, the Mary Jane Moran, on April 5, 2025, at the Port of Beaumont, Texas. The event was attended by namesake Mary Jane Marchisotto and her family, along with Moran leadership, employees, and members of the local port community.
The Mary Jane Moran will replace the Cape Ann and will be based out of Moran's Port Arthur operations, a Moran spokesperson told WorkBoat. The new tug will work in the full Sabine-Neches waterway.
The vessel was designed by Crowley Engineering Services, and built by Master Boat Builders, Inc., Coden, Ala. Mary Jane Moran joins Moran’s growing fleet of tugs tasked with ship assist and escort missions. The 86’x36’x15’8” vessel weighs 192 gross tons and draws 16’.
The steel-hulled tug is equipped with twin Caterpillar 3512E engines delivering a combined 5,100 hp and a bollard pull of 67.55 tons. The Cats connect to two Kongsberg US 205 Z-drives, offering speeds up to 12.5 knots.
Ship’s service power comes from a John Deere 4045 generator. Kongsberg provided the vessel controls and US205FP thrusters. Additional electronics onboard are Furuno. The Mary Jane Moran is classified with ABS for towing service and escort work and carries +A-1 Towing Service, +AMS, and LEV (low emissions vessel) certifications.
With accommodations for a crew of six, tankage includes 21,750 gals. of fuel oil; 4,940 gals. of water; and 575 gals. of lube oil.
“With low emissions, modern capabilities, and unmatched maneuverability, it reflects Moran’s commitment to excellence and sustainability,” the Sabine Pilots Association said in a LinkedIn post. “Here’s to a strong, safe future on the water.”
