Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Marine Towing & Barge Fleeting Services
Founded in 1970, Harbor Towing & Fleeting has established itself as a trusted leader in marine transportation and barge fleeting services. Our family-owned business operates Star Fleet, one of the most respected inland barge facilities in the Gulf Coast region, specializing in petrochemical barge operations while maintaining capabilities for dry cargo and specialty jobs. With over five decades of experience, we prioritize safety, environmental stewardship, and personalized service, guided by a best-in-class Safety Management System and a commitment to Goal Zero standards. Our fleet of three state-of-the-art tugboats and 4,000 linear feet of barge fleeting space between Algiers Lock and Industrial Lock demonstrates our dedication to operational excellence. We provide 24/7 dispatch services across key ports including New Orleans, South Louisiana, Baton Rouge, and Mobile, offering critical support for crew changes, potable water access, and trash disposal. Our team of seasoned mariners and industry-recognized leadership ensures compliance with rigorous safety protocols while maintaining strong partnerships with the U.S.Coast Guard and maritime regulatory bodies. Through three generations of Clower family leadership, we continue to invest in vessel upgrades, employee training, and infrastructure improvements to meet evolving industry demands. Our exemplary safety record and participation in programs like SIRE and Responsible Carrier Program underscore our position as a premier inland waterways transportation provider. We remain committed to delivering efficient, reliable, and environmentally responsible marine services that support the vital movement of goods through Americas waterways.
Services
Barge Fleeting
Vessel Shifting
Crew Changes
Potable Water Supply
Trash Disposal
Standby Operations
Lock Navigation
Marine Transportation
Safety Compliance
Dockside Services
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of specialized expertise in Gulf Coast barge operations
- Our family ownership ensures personalized service and long-term commitment
- We maintain a best-in-class Safety Management System with Goal Zero focus
- Our 24/7 dispatch operates across multiple Gulf Coast ports and waterways
- We handle petrochemical, dry cargo, and specialty barge requirements
What people say
Great facilities
Professionally run operation
Friendly and helpful
Allow crew changes
Excellent customer service
Services
Barge Fleeting
Our Star Fleet facility provides secure barge fleeting services with 4,000 linear feet of docking space and 23 monopile mooring dolphins. We can accommodate 30-35 tank barges with robust mooring systems designed for high and low water conditions. Located between Algiers Lock and Industrial Lock, our facility offers convenient access to Mississippi River operations while providing essential support services for petrochemical and dry cargo barges.
Vessel Shifting
We specialize in precise vessel shifting operations through Mississippi River locks and between Gulf Coast ports. Our experienced crews operate three modern tugboats maintained beyond regulatory standards to ensure reliable transportation of loaded barges. Services include lock navigation, dock-to-dock transfers, and stand-by operations at refineries and industrial facilities across our service area.
24/7 Dispatch
Our 24/7 dispatch service provides immediate response for emergency towing and critical barge operations. With strategically located vessels and trained personnel available around the clock, we ensure continuous support for unexpected situations or urgent transportation needs across all Gulf Coast ports where we operate.
Crew Support
We offer comprehensive crew support services including safe locations for crew changes, grocery access, and vendor connections. Our facilities provide potable water supply, trash disposal, and mechanical services to support barge crews during waiting periods for dock space or operational scheduling.
Safety Compliance
We maintain industry-leading safety compliance through our best-in-class Safety Management System and participation in programs like TMSA and SIRE. Our Goal Zero initiative focuses on eliminating spills, incidents, and injuries while meeting or exceeding all regulatory requirements for marine transportation safety and environmental protection.
People
Gerald E. Jerry Clower
President / Owner
Jerry Clower has led Harbor Towing & Fleeting since 1983, continuing his fathers 1970 vision. With a Coast Guard Reserve background and LSU engineering degree, he maintains active involvement in daily operations while emphasizing safety and family values.
Todd G. Clower
CEO / Owner
Third-generation leader Todd Clower oversees daily operations and compliance programs. He led Star Fleet's post-Katrina recovery and expansion while earning recognition for vessel upgrades and industry leadership through AWO and MNSA board memberships.
Michael C. Nation
COO
Michael Nation manages operations and industry relations with expertise in maritime compliance. He serves on Coast Guard advisory committees and local school boards, bringing strategic leadership to our safety and regulatory programs.
Jimmy Baer
Port Captain
With 36+ years of experience, Jimmy Baer directs vessel operations and work processes. His extensive knowledge of barge operations and welding expertise contribute to our commitment to operational excellence and safety standards.
Debbie Wills
Office Manager
Debbie Wills has managed financial operations since 1976, handling payroll, taxes, and insurance. She serves as Secretary for the Greater New Orleans Barge Fleeting Association, providing essential administrative support to our operations.
Questions
What services does Harbor Towing & Fleeting provide?
We specialize in barge fleeting, vessel shifting, and marine transportation services for petrochemical, dry cargo, and specialty barges across Gulf Coast ports.
How long has the company been in business?
We've provided marine transportation services since 1970, operating as a family-owned business for over 50 years.
What safety measures do you implement?
We maintain a best-in-class Safety Management System, Goal Zero standards, and participate in industry safety programs like SIRE and Responsible Carrier Program.
Do you offer 24/7 emergency services?
Yes, our 24/7 dispatch handles emergency towing and barge operations across our service areas.
What areas do you serve?
We operate in New Orleans, South Louisiana, Baton Rouge, Morgan City, Houma, Gulfport, Pascagoula, and Mobile port regions.
Can you accommodate crew changes?
Yes, our Star Fleet facility provides safe, convenient locations for crew changes and related support services.
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