The Mary Jane Moran: A Next-Gen Tug Built for Power and Sustainability
Moran Towing’s latest vessel blends brute strength with eco-conscious engineering
On April 5, 2025, Moran Towing unveiled its newest workhorse—the Mary Jane Moran—during a christening ceremony in Port Arthur, Texas. The event drew crews, customers, port partners, and the family of its namesake, Mary Jane Marchisotto, wife of longtime Moran employee Alan Marchisotto. The tug’s debut marks another step in the company’s push toward greener, high-performance fleet operations.
“This vessel isn’t just about power; it’s about marrying tradition with innovation,” said a Moran spokesperson during the ceremony.
Designed by Crowley Engineering Services and built by Master Boat Builders, Inc. in Coden, Alabama, the Mary Jane Moran packs a punch: 5,100+ horsepower, an 86-foot length, and a 36-foot beam. But its specs go beyond raw strength. The tug is LEV-certified (Low-Emission Vessel), ABS escort rated, and carries +A-1 Towing Service, +AMS, and LEV classifications—making it a standout in Moran’s sustainability-focused fleet.
Key features include a Markey Machinery hawser winch for precision handling and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) units to meet strict EPA Tier 4 emissions standards. These upgrades ensure the tug can handle ship assist and escort duties for larger vessels while minimizing environmental impact. It’s a deliberate choice, aligning with Moran’s broader strategy to modernize without sacrificing reliability.
The Mary Jane Moran joins siblings like the George James Moran, Paul T Moran, and Patricia B Moran—all ASD (azimuthing stern drive) tugs designed for efficiency. But this latest addition raises the bar, combining legacy (its name honors a family deeply tied to the company) with cutting-edge tech. For ports navigating tighter emissions regulations, it’s a glimpse of the industry’s future: tugs that pull double duty as powerhouses and planet-friendly partners.
