Great Lakes Announces Delivery of Their Multi Cats, the Cape Hatteras and the Cape Canaveral

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation, the leading provider of dredging services in the United States, has recently announced the delivery of two state-of-the-art vessels, the Cape Hatteras and the Cape Canaveral. These impressive Damen 3013 Multi Cats were built by Conrad Shipyard in Morgan City, LA, marking a significant milestone for both Great Lakes and the U.S. dredging industry.

The Cape Hatteras and Cape Canaveral represent a major step forward in terms of safety improvements for Great Lakes’ dredge pipeline operations. Chris Gunsten, Great Lakes’ Senior Vice President of Project Services and Fleet Engineering, emphasized the importance of these vessels, stating, “This is a milestone for our Company and the U.S. dredging industry. The Multi Cat brings step change safety improvements to Great Lakes’ dredge pipeline operations, which was a prime driver for the investment.”

One of the key safety enhancements offered by the Multi Cat is the ability to securely handle pipe connections on deck, significantly reducing the risk of man overboard incidents. Furthermore, these vessels will enhance Great Lakes’ pipe and anchor operations, ensuring improved efficiency and safety. The Multi Cats’ advanced features, such as two cranes, multiple winches, and wire tuggers, will also minimize manual work and the risk of soft tissue injuries.

Measuring approximately 99 feet in length, the Cape Hatteras and Cape Canaveral are powered by three EPA Tier III Caterpillar C32 TTA engines, enabling speeds of up to 10.2 knots. With a maximum bollard pull of around 32 short tons, these vessels are equipped with two large winches and two deck cranes, making them ideal for a wide range of tasks, including handling submerged and floating pipelines, anchor handling, and logistics supply.

One of the most significant advantages of the Multi Cats is their ability to eliminate the need for various floating support equipment, such as derrick barges, towboats, and anchor barges. This streamlined approach enhances operational efficiency and reduces costs, further solidifying Great Lakes’ position as a leader in the industry.

Notably, the Cape Hatteras and Cape Canaveral are the first Damen Multi Cats to be built in the U.S., fully compliant with the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stability criteria. This achievement highlights Great Lakes’ commitment to innovation and its dedication to meeting the highest standards in the industry.

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation has a long-standing reputation for successfully completing marine projects, with over 133 years of experience. The company boasts the largest and most diverse fleet in the U.S. dredging industry, consisting of approximately 200 specialized vessels. Moreover, Great Lakes is actively expanding its core business into the rapidly growing offshore wind energy sector, showcasing its adaptability and forward-thinking approach.

Safety is a top priority for Great Lakes, and the company’s Incident-and Injury-Free® (IIF®) safety management program is integrated into all aspects of its culture. By fostering a work environment where employee safety is paramount, Great Lakes ensures that its operations are carried out with the utmost care and professionalism.

The delivery of the Cape Hatteras and Cape Canaveral represents a significant achievement for Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation and the U.S. dredging industry as a whole. These vessels not only enhance safety and operational efficiency but also demonstrate Great Lakes’ commitment to maintaining and protecting our shorelines and waterways. With its impressive track record and dedication to excellence, Great Lakes continues to lead the way in providing exceptional dredging services and contributing to the growth of the industry.

For further information, please contact:
Tina Baginskis
Director, Investor Relations
Phone: 630-574-3024