PORT ARTHUR, Texas – Moran celebrated the christening of the J Themistoclis Moran on May 29, 2026, at its Port Arthur dock, bringing together crews and their families, customers, port partners, and community members to mark an important milestone for the company and a meaningful moment for a region it has served for more than 60 years. Moran’s history in Port Arthur dates to 1964, and the port has since become one of Moran’s largest operating areas, supporting major energy and shipping customers, including LNG terminal operations. Since 2019, Moran’s local fleet has grown from five tugs to eight in 2026, including its joint venture vessels operating in the region.
“Our people have always been the foundation of Moran,” said Steve Kelly, Regional Vice President–Gulf. “The christening of the J Themistoclis Moran is more than the introduction of a new tug. It reflects our commitment to supporting the crews who work aboard these vessels, the customers who rely on us every day, and the communities and ports where we live and operate.”
Representing the next generation of Moran tugboats, the J Themistoclis Moran is the fourth vessel in its class, delivered in 2025 for Moran’s commercial fleet as part of the company’s ongoing fleet modernization program. Her sister tugs include the William E Moran, Newt Moran, and Thomas C Moran, which are currently supporting Moran’s operations in New York City.
Sponsor, Karen Barker Marcou, christens the tug alongside Namesake, John 'Jack' Themistoclis Marcou
The vessel measures 92 feet in length with a 40-foot beam and delivers more than 7,000 horsepower and over 87 metric tons of bollard pull. Built to support increasingly larger vessels entering U.S. ports, the tug features Tier IV engines certified by ABS as a low-emissions vessel, significantly reducing NOₓ emissions. The tug is escort-rated and Fi-Fi notated, with advanced onboard and off-ship firefighting systems, including three onboard firefighting stations and dual firefighting monitors powered by an SFP 300x400 fire pump.
Designed with crew safety and functionality in mind, the vessel also features a 360-degree wheelhouse viewpoint to improve visibility and operational awareness during harbor-assist and escort operations. The J Themistoclis Moran honors John Themistoclis Marcou, grandson of James R. Barker, Vice Chairman of the Board of Moran and Chairman of the Board of Interlake Maritime Services. The namesake also recalls Themistoclis, an ancient Athenian politician, master strategist, and naval admiral who changed the course of maritime history.
Moran continues to evolve with the maritime industry while staying grounded in the people and partnerships at the heart of its work. Investments in next-generation vessels like the J Themistoclis Moran strengthen the company’s ability to support customers, enhance safety and reliability for crews, and contribute to the long-term success of the ports and communities it serves.
Moran thanks all those who joined in celebrating this special occasion.
Pictured left to right: Captain Jeff Welch, Engineer Corey Randazzo, Mate Eric Newberry, Mate Daniel Billeaudeaux, Deckhand Mason Brooks, Deckhand Michael Mobley, A/B Matt Welch, Chief Eng. Darrel Conner, Captain Steve Kelly
A proud moment as local crew members, shoreside teams, and corporate colleagues come together to celebrate.
About Moran
Since 1860, Moran has been a leading provider of ship-assist services, operating in 17 ports and 7 LNG terminals across the U.S. East Coast, U.S. Gulf Coast, and Puerto Rico. In addition to ship assist services, Moran also provides LNG terminal support, marine transportation, environmental and industrial services, and commercial diving, with over 2,000 dedicated professionals across 50 locations. Within its maritime services, Moran’s fleet of 104 tugboats and 14 oceangoing dry bulk and tank barges move cargo and vessels safely 365 days a year. Moran continues to invest in its operations and performance through its fleet modernization program, with 16 total tug deliveries planned through 2026.