Algoma-Harvester

Algoma Central Corporation announces the arrival in Canada and the christening of its second Equinox Class bulk cargo vessel, the 'Algoma Harvester'. The christening took place at Pier 26 South in Hamilton Harbour before an audience that included local dignitaries and members of the marine industry. Mrs. Kathy Baske, wife of Jim Baske, the President and CEO of ArcelorMittal Dofasco imparted the traditional blessing. As is customary for these ceremonies, a bottle of champagne was broken against the bow of the ship, a banner revealing the ship's name was unveiled, and Father David Mulholland of the Mission to Seafarers offered prayers and other words of inspiration to the Canadian crew of the ship. Alogma explains that the Equinox-Class represents the next generation of Great Lakes - St. Lawrence Waterway bulk cargo vessels. The ships have been designed to optimize fuel efficiency and operating performance thus minimizing environmental impact. A 45% improvement in energy efficiency over Algoma's current fleet average is expected, resulting from the use of a modern Tier II compliant engine, increased cargo capacity, and an improved hull form.

Algoma Central Corporation is pleased to announce that it has taken delivery of the second of eight news Equinox class lake bulk carriers from Nantong Mingde shipyard in China. The ship, named the Algoma Harvester, is being prepared for the long voyage to Canada and is expected to leave China shortly. When it arrives in Canada this summer, the Algoma Harvester will join its sister ship, the Algoma Equinox, as part of Algoma's 32-vessel Canadian flagged Great Lakes fleet. The 2014 shipping season is off to a late start following the very harsh winter weather and record ice conditions on the Great Lakes. The addition of the Algoma Harvester will provide much needed capacity to help meet the needs of Canadian grain farmers to get last year's record crop to market.