Moss Point Marine Delivers Nicor Clipper- Largest Offshore Tug/Supply Vessel Built In The U.S.

When Moss Point Marine of Escatawpa, Mississippi, delivered the Nicor Clipper to her owners recently, the tug/supply/container deck vessel made the record book.

Delivered to new owner Nicor Marine Inc., of New Orleans, the Nicor Clipper measures an astounding 254 feet in length—believed to be the largest offshore workboat vessel ever built in the United States, according to Moss Point Marine president John Dane III. The vessel was delivered to her proud new owner this summer.

The aft-stacks vessel measures 254 feet by 44 feet by 16 feet overall.

In addition to her below deck supply vessel mud storage capabilities, the vessel has unique above deck characteristics, too, primarily in the form of a special stern ramp that allows cargo containers to roll on and off the gargantuan deck area for freight carrying. The stern ramp was constructed by the Moss Point Marine work crews.

The vessel actually began life as a more conventionally sized 214- foot vessel. But after construction began, Nicor requested that modifications be made to extend the deck area an extra 40 feet.

"I'm proud of the manner in which our shipyard was able to take on the additional demands of lengthening this vessel once construction was already underway," commented Mr. Dane. "Not only have we delivered a first-class vessel for Nicor, but by so doing, we've set a new record in the shipbuilding community around the world." Powering the Nicor Clipper are a set of EMD 12-567C diesels linked to Falk reduction gears on a 2.968:1 ratio. Engine controls are by Wabco with engine monitoring by Engine Monitor (EMI).

A Harbormaster BT-550 bowthruster will enable the vessel to have extra maneuverability around offshore structures.

Shipboard power is provided by a set of Delco 150-kw generators provided by George Engine Company.

The Nicor Clipper contains 242,430 gallons fuel storage capacity; 24,780 gallons of fresh water; 1,300 bbls. liquid mud storage and 6,000 cubic feet bulk mud capacity.

Her electronics systems were supplied and installed by Marine Electronics and include: a set of Furuno FR-1011 radar sets; Stephens SEA 106 and Sailor RT-144 radiotelephones; a TI 9000 Loran, a Decca 801 Satnav; and Sperry gyrocompass and autopilot.

Deck side equipment includes two McElroy tug winches and an HBL anchor windlass. Other equipment includes Carlisle & Finch searchlights; Kahlenberg horns and Hubbel running and navigation lights.

The vessel is both ABS and USCG certified.