Trailer Bridge Secured Three-Year Tug Agreement

The firm signed a contract with Curtin Maritime to operate tug services for two barges between Jacksonville and San Juan.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Transportation

A tug boat pulls a large cargo barge through harbor waters under a bright overcast sky. — Trailer Bridge has secured a three-year agreement with Curtin Maritime to operate tug services for two barges connecting Jacksonville and San Juan. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Trailer Bridge has entered into a three-year agreement with Curtin Maritime to handle towing operations for two LoLo barges. The partnership aims to enhance schedule reliability and customer service for the company's weekly shipping route.

Why it matters

Securing long-term tug services is intended to improve schedule integrity for the only weekly Jones Act barge service connecting Jacksonville to San Juan, Puerto Rico. This agreement builds on recent infrastructure investments to bolster the firm's operational consistency.

The agreement spans three years and covers two LoLo barges. Trailer Bridge additionally invested $9 million in 2026 for dry dock work and upgrades.

The players

Trailer Bridge

This logistics company operates the only weekly Jones Act barge service between Jacksonville and San Juan.

Curtin Maritime

Based in Long Beach, California, this firm specializes in marine towing and barge operations.

Ports America

This company is a marine terminal operator that entered a long-term partnership with Trailer Bridge in 2026.

The details

Under the new deal, Curtin Maritime will take responsibility for towing services for two barges, including the Mabel C vessel which is slated to join the trade route. The move follows a significant $9 million investment by Trailer Bridge in 2026 dry dock upgrades to ensure fleet readiness.

Trailer Bridge entered a 10-year partnership with Ports America in August 2026.
The tug services agreement was announced on September 29, 2026.
The Mabel C is scheduled to enter the trade in mid-October 2026.

Market Landscape

This partnership operates within the strict regulatory framework of the Jones Act to maintain domestic shipping routes. By aligning with specialized tug operators, the company strengthens its position in a market that requires exclusive, compliant U.S. vessel services.

Customers relying on the weekly Jacksonville-to-San Juan barge service may see improved schedule reliability and fewer transit delays. The investment and partnership shift are designed to ensure consistent cargo capacity for those shipping goods to Puerto Rico.

The takeaway

Reliable marine logistics are essential for maintaining supply chains between the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico. Strategic investments in vessels and operational partnerships serve as the primary methods for companies to mitigate the risks of service interruptions.