Partners to build Jones Act-compliant amphibious dredger

Moran Iron Works and Watermaster NA, the Michigan-based subsidiary of Finnish builder Aquamec, have formed a partnership with the aim of introducing the first purpose-built, self-propelled amphibious dredger ever to be constructed in the United States.

The Jones Act-compliant vessel will have a length of 11 metres, a beam of 3.3 metres, and a displacement of approximately 19.5 tonnes. It will be equipped for shallow-water dredging projects, clearing of rubbish, and civil engineering projects such as maintenance work and cable- and pipe-laying.

Construction on the vessel is underway at Moran’s facilities in Onaway, Michigan.