Port of Brunswick Adds New High-Powered Tugboat to Support Growing Vessel Traffic

Moran Towing Company has expanded its fleet at the Port of Brunswick with the addition of the Shiney V. Moran, a new 5,100-horsepower tugboat designed to support growing maritime operations. The vessel joins the Diane Moran as the company’s latest investments in the busy Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) hub.

In 2024, Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) reported 733 vessel calls at its Brunswick terminals, including 614 RoRo vessels, 89 breakbulk carriers, and 30 bulk cargo ships. Port operations in Brunswick run 24/7, with tugboats playing a critical role in docking and maneuvering.

“These more powerful tugboats help prepare Colonels Island to better accommodate the 10,000-vehicle vessels expected to serve the U.S. East Coast,” said GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch.

Both the Shiney V. Moran and Diane Moran offer over 60 metric tons of pull, enhanced firefighting systems, and escort capabilities. They join the existing Ann Moran, a 3,000-horsepower tug already serving the port.

Joe Myatt, Moran’s general manager, called the additions a “strategic step forward” in supporting the port’s continued growth. Bruce Fendig, president of the Brunswick Bar Pilots Association, emphasized their role in ensuring the safety of vessels navigating the harbor.

Bar pilots begin guiding incoming ships 10 nautical miles out to sea, with tugboats assisting near the Sidney Lanier Bridge for final berthing operations.

In 2024, Brunswick became the nation’s busiest gateway for autos and heavy machinery, processing more than 900,000 RoRo units. The Georgia Ports Authority recently completed $262 million in capacity upgrades, including new warehousing and vehicle processing facilities.