Hughes Bros., Inc., a sixth-generation family-owned barge and shipyard company based in Edison, N.J., has launched and christened its newest and largest floating drydock, Michael, now operational in Red Hook, Brooklyn. A Hughes Bros. press release said the Michael is the first new construction drydock put into service in Brooklyn in over a century.
Named after company founder Michael Hughes, who established Hughes Bros. in 1852, the drydock measures 206’x86’x25’, with 70’ between the wingwalls and a lifting capacity of 1,500 tons. The drydock is equipped with automated pumps and valves for efficiency in servicing vessels. Hughes Bros. told WorkBoat that the Michael can accommodate vessels up to 300'x64'x16'.
The Michael is the third and the largest floating drydock in the Hughes Bros. fleet, expanding the company’s ability to support more vessels and meet the growing demand in New York Harbor, the press release said. Hughes Bros told WorkBoat that it proudly services New York Harbor's barge and tug fleet.
Last week, a christening ceremony was held at Hughes Shipyard, Red Hook, N.Y., attended by shipyard employees, industry professionals, and members of the Hughes and Feeney families. The drydock was designed by JMS Naval Architects, Groton, Conn., and built by Feeney Shipyard, Kingston, N.Y.
A shipyard statement noted the Hughes and Feeney families have worked together for a century. Claire Hughes, wife of company president Bill Hughes, christened the drydock.
“We owe it all to Michael, which is why we are naming this magnificent drydock after him,” said Bob Hughes, vice president of Hughes Bros. “We salute his vision and stand on the shoulders of the generations that came before us.”
With the Michael now in service, Hughes Bros., Inc. continues to expand its capacity while maintaining its long-standing role in the region’s maritime industry.
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