The Bill L Project was more than just a vessel refit; it was a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and adaptability. The entire crew, from management to skilled tradespeople, took immense pride in every step of the process, overcoming challenges and driving the project forward with determination. What stood out most was the collaborative spirit, with each team member bringing their expertise and commitment to ensure the Bill L met—and even exceeded—the expectations set at the beginning. This project became an emblem of what can be accomplished when a diverse set of skills unites for a common goal.
Built in 2014 by Damen Shipyards, the Bill L was designed to be a reliable workhorse with 1,350 brake horsepower (BHP) and a gross tonnage of 49.19. Compact and highly maneuverable, with a length of 16 meters and a beam of 5.5 meters, it was perfectly suited for coastal and offshore operations. Over time, however, it became clear that the vessel needed updates to continue operating efficiently in British Columbia’s rugged west coast environment.
The Bill L’s refit was designed to enhance its capabilities and equip it for even more demanding conditions. Key updates included changes to vessel displacement, extending its length and beam, installing modern equipment such as a new winch and fendering system, extensive hull and structural improvements, and a significant overhaul of the exhaust system. The refit allowed the Bill L to continue its essential role in industries such as fishing, cargo transport, and marine construction.
The planning phase began early in 2022, with detailed schedules and milestones laid out for each major task. Coordinating with multiple stakeholders—including engineers, project managers, and external contractors—the project required precise attention to timelines and sequencing to avoid delays. From structural repairs to complex mechanical upgrades, the logistics of bringing in the right materials, ensuring timely inspections, and organizing skilled labour were critical to the project’s success.
Communication across departments was key, especially as unforeseen challenges arose. From material shortages to scheduling conflicts with external vendors, the team had to constantly adjust and find solutions to keep the project on track.
The workforce on the Bill L project was made up of a highly specialized crew. Welders, electricians, shipwrights, and mechanical engineers worked in sync, bringing the vessel to its final form. Some tasks required unique skill sets, such as installing the winch system or performing precision welding for hull repairs. The team also relied on external specialists for tasks like non-destructive testing (UT testing) and Bureau Veritas (BV) inspections to ensure compliance with stringent Class society standards.
Each phase required not just technical skill, but also creative problem-solving as unexpected obstacles came up. This blend of workforce expertise and adaptability proved vital in hitting key milestones while maintaining the highest quality standards.
The project was successfully completed in June 2024, delivering a modernized vessel with enhanced performance, safety, and operational efficiency.
“I would like to commend all parties involved for their outstanding work during the recent refit of the tugboat Bill L Ledcor. The project scope was highly complex from the outset, involving strict Bureau Veritas (B.V.) class requirements, where Arrow Marine Services (AMS) staff demonstrated remarkable expertise and professionalism throughout the entire process.
The AMS team worked closely with Ledcor Resources & Transportation (LRT) management, to ensure that every phase of the refit met the strict standards required for a grand project of this nature. The attention to detail, quality, and ability to navigate the technical challenges were truly impressive by both teams. Arrow Marine Services’ deep industry knowledge and skilled craftsmanship were key to the successful completion of this project. This refit is a testament to the seamless collaboration between AMS and LRT, as well as our shared dedication to delivering exceptional results. The ‘Bill L Ledcor’ is now prepared for many more years of reliable service on the Canadian Pacific coast.” – Yvon Postnikoff, Division Manager, Arrow Marine Services Ltd.
