'Tanabata' Christened Under U.S. Flag

'Tanabata' Christened Under U.S. Flag

New Jobs For AMO As Fourth Car Carrier Is Added To Fleet

AMO National Executive Vice President Jerome Joseph, 'Tanabata' Captain Steven Kayser and AMO National President Michael McKay (left to right) gather for a photograph during the christening.

     The M/V 'Tanabata' was christened in Baltimore Nov. 23 as the newest addition to the U.S.-flag car carrier fleet and the fourth such ship manned in all licensed positions by AMO.
     The vessel--operated by American V Ships Marine Ltd.--was officially reflagged American in Bremerhaven, Germany, 20 days earlier.
     The ship, which is named for a Japanese festival, was delivered Nov. 18, 1994. With a crew of 20, the 'Tanabata' operates between the U.S. East Coast and Northern Europe, carrying new and used cars, trucks, boats, heavy equipment, and other roll-on/roll-off cargoes. The 624-foot vessel can carry 5,850 cars.
     The 'Tanabata' joins the car carriers 'Faust', 'Fidelio', and 'Tellus' under AMO contract. The 'Faust' and 'Fidelio' are operated by American V Ships, while the 'Tellus'--formerly 'NOSAC Ranger'--is operated by Pacific Gulf Marine Inc.
     The 'Tanabata', 'Faust', and 'Fidelio' have been approved by the Maritime Administration for participation in the Maritime Security Program authorized in the Maritime Security Act of 1996. The car carriers will fill slots originally occupied by Crowley American Transport's 'Sea Fox', 'Sea Wolf' and 'Sea Lion'.
     Those ships were sold and renamed recently. Sealift Inc. acquired the 'Sea Fox'. Osprey Ship Management will now operate the 'Sea Wolf' (also known briefly as the 'Lykes Adventurer') and the 'Sea Lion'. AMO continues to represent the officers aboard these vessels.
     American V Ships Marine President Robert Wellner said in a recent letter to AMO National President Michael R. McKay that MSP service for the 'Faust', 'Fidelio' and 'Tanabata' "was accomplished through the development and coordinated efforts of the AMO."
     Wellner called the MSP agreements "win-win efforts," and he expressed hope that "all parties involved ... continue to prosper and grow and provide additional quality seafaring opportunities."

Front Page

Return To Section-Front