Foss Maritime has christened the second in a series of three Arctic-class tugboats, the Denise Foss.

The new tug, built at Foss’ Rainier, Ore., shipyard, was christened June 1 at the Foss Waterway Seaport in Tacoma, Wash. She is due to enter service later this summer.

The132'x41'x18' Denise Foss is ice class D0. This means the hulls are designed specifically for polar waters and are reinforced to maneuver in ice. The vessel complies with the requirements in the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Vessels Intended to Operate in Polar Waters, including ABS A1 standards, SOLAS and Green Passport.

Denise Tabbutt, one of the three sisters who are primary shareholders of Saltchuk, the parent company of Foss Maritime, broke the ceremonial champagne bottle at the christening of her namesake vessel.

"It's a proud moment for the people whose vision and leadership inspired the creation of this tugboat class to support our commitment to Alaska and the Arctic," said Tabbutt. "In order to stay relevant in a fast and ever changing world, it's important we remain committed to our shared values and continue looking for opportunities to better serve our customers. The Arctic-class tugs are the perfect example of this commitment."

The Denise Foss features a pair of Caterpillar C280-8 engines putting out a total of 7,268 hp. Reintjes reduction gears turn a pair of fixed-pitch propellers in Nautican kort nozzles. Markey Machinery supplied the double-drum tow winch. The tug has a bollard pull of 221,000 lbs.

The vessel incorporates several environmentally focused designs and structural and technological upgrades, including:

  • Elimination of ballast tanks, so there is no chance of transporting invasive species;
  • Holding tanks for black and gray water to permit operations in no-discharge zones (such as parts of Alaska and California);
  • Hydraulic oil systems compatible with biodegradable oil;
  • Energy efficient LED lighting; and
  • High-energy absorption Schuyler fendering.

The Denise Foss has been designed to withstand the rigors of Arctic operations and is suited to work across the world. The Michele Foss, the first tug in the series, safely pioneered a new route across the North Slope, while operating in extreme conditions of first-year ice a meter thick, according to a statement from Foss Maritime.