April 15, 2026 — North Vancouver, B.C. — Today, Seaspan Marine announced an agreement with Hodder Tugboat Co. Ltd. to sell its legacy chip and hog fuel barge division, and remaining forestry industry transportation assets, subject to closing conditions.
The transaction, which is described as a “turnkey,” is inclusive of the workforce, existing services and related assets, like coastal tugs, river tugs and barges, and associated maintenance facilities — customers who rely on this vital service remain unaffected.
Hodder is an established marine towing company based in Richmond with a longstanding focus on the forest industry, including the transportation of logs, timber and related forestry products. The sale aligns with the expert skillsets of the existing Seaspan team and assets in operation.
The acquisition of Seaspan’s chip and hog barge division is a natural extension of that expertise, reinforcing Hodder’s commitment to service for its coastal clients.
“This transition marks an important step in focusing our efforts on growth and new market opportunities, while acknowledging the strong foundation and contributions of the business we’re evolving from,” Jordan Pechie, President of Marine Transportation, said.
Seaspan Marine has operated along the Pacific coast for more than a century providing a range of marine services for commercial and industrial clients. The company’s specialized fleet and crew expertise have made it a maritime leader. This transition marks a strategic alignment of the company’s operations, focusing on positioning resources around its core service offerings of ship assist and vessel escort to support ports, new terminals, and the increased number of vessels requiring specialized assistance.
Seaspan Marine’s reputation as a reliable partner in a competitive marketplace remains central to its operations going forward. The company’s highly skilled mariners, on-site training facilities and commitment to operational resilience continue to distinguish it within the industry — a foundation that will guide the company through its second century.
About Seaspan Marine
Seaspan Marine has more than 130 years of serving Vancouver Harbour and is one of Canada’s most trusted providers of ship docking, undocking and escort services, earning a reputation for exceptional service, reliability and safety.
Seaspan’s modern fleet, crewed around the clock, is supported by a robust safety and training culture. Its ISO-certified systems, advanced simulator-based training and independent third-party operator certification have established them as leaders in operational safety — a standard that aligns with our own commitment to excellence in marine operations.
About Hodder
Hodder Tugboat Co. Ltd. traces its origins to the early 1900s and has operated under its current name since incorporation in 1961. The Company is a privately held, general marine towing operator based in Richmond, British Columbia. Hodder primarily serves the forest industry, transporting logs, lumber, residuals, pulp, and paper to and from coastal mills and for export markets.
In addition to its core forestry operations, Hodder provides towing and marine transportation services to a diverse range of industries, including short sea shipping, sand and gravel aggregate, construction, and general cargo. The Company’s operations extend throughout the British Columbia north and south coast and the navigable reaches of the Fraser River.
Hodder employs 65 people and owns and operates a fleet consisting of ten tugboats and five crew boats.
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