Portland, Oregon – [March 2025] – Tidewater Transportation and Terminals has finalized a contract with Gunderson Marine & Iron, a Portland-based shipyard, to build four new state-of-the-art liquid refined product barges. This strategic partnership reinforces Tidewater’s ongoing commitment to providing safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible marine transportation solutions on the Columbia Snake River System.

The new barges, designed and constructed specifically for inland operations, will measure 272 feet in length, 42 feet in width, and 18 feet 6 inches in depth, with a capacity of 20,000 barrels. These barges will meet the regulatory requirements of the United States Coast Guard and comply with OPA 90 standards. The first two barges are expected to be delivered in May and July of 2026, with the remaining two scheduled for delivery in November 2026 and February 2027. These vessels will allow Tidewater to expand its fleet and meet the growing energy transportation needs of the region.

“We are excited to continue modernizing our fleet and expand our ability to meet our customers’ needs,” said Johan Sperling, President and CEO of Tidewater. “Partnering with Gunderson Marine & Iron is a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation. This new contract strengthens both our fleet and our relationship with a valued local business.”

Jeff Murphy, Portfolio Manager of Ullico Infrastructure Fund, added, “This project will significantly enhance Tidewater’s ability to transport vital energy products while maintaining the highest operational and environmental standards.”

Dee Burch, President of Gunderson Marine & Iron, commented, “We are honored to partner with Tidewater on this important project. It’s a win for our workforce and the regional economy. We’re proud to build high-quality barges that will serve Tidewater and its customers for decades to come.”

Tidewater, headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, is the leading inland tug and barge company west of the Mississippi River, operating five terminals along the Columbia Snake River System. The company has recently expanded its operations with a full-service biofuel and renewable diesel blending and distribution facility at its flagship terminal in Pasco, Washington, further solidifying its role in the region’s energy transition.

For more information, explore this Marine Log article.