Great lake boats, a good video

[ArlyA]

Just observational thinking...

Interesting how the Gott has just a "wrap around" bow. No curves or apparent fluid dynamics design. Likely a trade off to create the most storage area possible.

Wonder if the potential inefficiency of the design (for fuel consumption) is compensated by the added payload?

Just a thought...

Here's a more detailed explanation:

• Cargo Capacity:
  The square shape allows for a larger volume within the hull, enabling the ships to carry more cargo (ore, grain, coal, etc.) per trip and still pass through locks.
  
  • 
    
  • Stability:
    The flat, wide bottom and straight sides contribute to a stable platform, important for handling the often challenging conditions of the Great Lakes, including strong winds and waves.
    
    
  • Shallow Waters and Locks:
    The relatively shallow draft (the vertical distance from the waterline to the bottom of the hull) of these vessels is essential for navigating the shallower parts of the Great Lakes and for passing through locks.
    
    
  • Cost-Effectiveness:
    The square hull design is simpler and less expensive to construct than a more streamlined, rounded hull, which is a factor when building large cargo ships.
    
    
  • Tradition:
    The design of Great Lakes ships has evolved over time, and the box-like shape has become a characteristic feature, reflecting the practical needs of the region

 

[BackRoad]

Interesting...so perhaps it IS a thoughtful design. A situation of identifying your requirements, and then developing a solution that best achieves them...

Thanks Mr. Arly!

 

[ArlyA]

I should add that these boats are also river capable crafts which does effect there design. The larger ones max draft is in the 32ft zone. I think you can see the draft marks on this boat and its length is in the 750ft range. (not the largest)

 

[ArlyA]

The 2025 shipping season has begun in the Port of Thunder Bay Ontario. ALGOMA GUARDIAN (1987 Canada) was loading at Richardson International Terminal (Current River) on March 25, 2025. FEDERAL YOSHINO (2001 Marshall Islands) was in dry dock at Ontario Shipyards. CAPT. HENRY JACKMAN (2021 Canada) was loading at Richardson International Terminal (Main)

 

[ning]

Interesting...so perhaps it IS a thoughtful design. A situation of identifying your requirements, and then developing a solution that best achieves them...

Thanks Mr. Arly!

My recollection is that as far as aerodynamics (somewhat similar to the water version) is concerned, a the shape of the head (ie, blunt in this case) matters less than a streamlined tail (as in, yes of course it matters, thus the F-104's needle shape, but particularly at low speeds what's going on behind you matters more).

I could be completely wrong.

 

[ArlyA]

My recollection is that as far as aerodynamics (somewhat similar to the water version) is concerned, a the shape of the head (ie, blunt in this case) matters less than a streamlined tail (as in, yes of course it matters, thus the F-104's needle shape, but particularly at low speeds what's going on behind you matters more).

I could be completely wrong.

Buldous bulges are more efficient but lake boats are doing less distances and they need to fit in locks. Salties do have them who venture into the lakes doing cargos here..

 

[ArlyA]

Captain Henry Jackman downbound at the West Pier of the Soo Locks.
3-26-25

 

[ArlyA]

It was fitting to frame up Canada geese with the Canada Steamship Lines vessel Atlantic Huron in the distance. Duluth, MN - March 25, 2025 This boats design might be classified as buldous.

 

[ArlyA]

The Lee Tregurtha as it embarks on its first trip of the season from Duluth. After passing under the Blatnik Bridge, the classic laker navigated through a few remaining ice floes. Fully loaded with iron ore, the LAT is now bound for Cleveland. Nice pic!

 

[ArlyA]

Image says it all!