Company Profile
Western Towboat Co.
Company Overview
A family owned business since 1948, that has been operating tugs and barges from Puget Sound to the Aleutian Islands, from Arctic Alaska to the Hawaiian Islands and to the Panama Canal. We provide customers with one of the most modern, custom built & designed tug & barge fleets on the West Coast.
Company History
Western Towboat started with one small tug the N D TOBEY along Ballard’s waterfront in 1948. In the early days, Bob Sr. functioned as business agent, captain, engineer. He brought an intense work ethic to all of these tasks and held himself accountable to the highest standards. Western's tugs then, as now, are maintained more like yachts than work boats. The smart looking tugs with the blue stacks and the yellow and white house are a clear reflection of Bob Sr's personal pride and dedication.
Back then it was a different business era. A man's word was a binding contract; towing jobs were sealed with a handshake; and customer service meant a personal commitment to see the job done right. Bob Sr. offered his customers the best towing service possible... one that could only come from his personal “hands on “approach. Western Towboat has grown to a fleet of 22 tugs and 7 barges since then but its tradition of hands-on commitment continues. Bob Sr. passed his work ethic and sense of pride on to his two sons, Bob Jr. and Ric, and to all of his employees.
After 71 years of service she is still a Family business owned and operated by Bob Jr. and his sons Russell, Ross, and daughter Kristin all working together daily. Whether it's at the helm of the Company or on-board one of our tugs the Shrewsbury’s continue Bob Sr.’s hands on commitment to the business. Modern equipment, all custom designed and built in WESTERN'S own shipyard, operated by experienced, hardworking crew offering customers professional, competitive ocean and harbor towing services.
Notable Clients
Lynden Inc.