Securing Maritime Safety through Vessel Maintenance

Proper maintenance and rebuilding of fishing vessels is critical for ensuring the safety and livelihood of fishermen at sea. Regular inspections, repairs, and upgrades not only extend the life of these vessels but also significantly reduce the risk of accidents and equipment failures, ultimately protecting the crews who rely on them.

This is where Fred Wahl Marine Construction in Reedsport, Oregon steps in. The company has established itself as a leading shipyard, specializing in the construction of high-quality commercial vessels known for their exceptional dependability and durability. This is also where fishing vessels from up and down the West Coast come for repairs and upgrades. Recently, the company has been working on vessels from areas such as Long Beach, California, Newport, Oregon, and Sand Point, Alaska.

From Long Beach, the squid seiner PROVIDER, measuring 59 feet by 24 feet, is getting a major update. Although it had new sponsons installed in 2014 to widen its hull, the original wheelhouse remained. Over time, corrosion developed where the old wheelhouse met the newer deck, requiring the entire wheelhouse to be replaced. Additionally, the PROVIDER is scheduled to receive a new stern tube and improved steering components.

The EXCALIBUR, a 60-foot by 30-foot boat from Newport, Oregon, is also undergoing modifications. Bow bulwarks were originally only about shin high with a handrail. To enhance safety and better deflect water, the yard is raising these bulwarks by 26 inches. Other improvements include replacing plates in the freshwater tanks and adding a stainless steel guard to protect the mast.

Coming from Sand Point, Alaska, the KETA, a 122-foot Bering Sea crabber is on site for routine maintenance. This includes new bottom paint, replacing zinc anodes, and installing a new anchor winch for the tough Alaska conditions.

EARLY DAWN, built in 1978 at Seattle’s Marco Shipyard, will be arriving at the shipyard soon. At 108 feet by 28 feet, this Bering Sea golden crab fishing vessel will get significant upgrades including a new wheelhouse and sponsoning to widen its hull to 41 feet. this redesign improve stability, visibility, and increased hold capacity.

Fred Wahl Marine will also be working on STORMY SEAS, a shrimper and crabber from Charleston, Oregon. The vessel will receive maintenance, including new shafting to keep it operationally sound.

The owners who maintain and repair their vessels in a timely manner demonstrate a commitment to safety. By investing in quality construction, diligent maintenance, and regular upgrades, they set the standard for responsible maritime operations.