(MORGAN CITY, La.) — Conrad Shipyard on Aug. 14 launched the first yard, repair, berthing and messing (YRBM) barge under construction for the U.S. Navy. The barges provide a temporary home away from home and workplace for servicemen and servicewomen whose vessels are in port for repairs and maintenance.
Conrad is currently under contract to build five YRBM barges, which are being constructed at Conrad’s Amelia, La., facility. The first barge is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in the first quarter of 2024.
“The YRBM vessel showcases Conrad Shipyard’s dedication to quality and safety from the engineering phase through completion of the vessel,” the company said in a news release. “We have successfully integrated the Navy’s requirements for the YRBM into a compliant design that maximizes the goals set forth in the RFP (request for proposal). ,,, We look forward to the completion of this first hull soon and the continuation of our partnership with the U.S. Navy.”
The YRBM barge is an ABS A1 accommodation barge 151 feet long and 49 feet wide, with a 14-foot draft. The vessel provides pierside living accommodations capable of berthing 199 mixed gender personnel and messing for 300 personnel. It includes spaces for medical offices, classrooms, workspaces, laundry rooms, storerooms and lounge areas.
