April 1 Fleet Total Reflects Ice Delays
Only 19 U.S.-flag lakers were in service on April 1, 2003, a decrease of 15 hulls compared to a year ago. The heavy ice conditions forced a number of vessels to push back their sail dates. The April 1 total represents a decrease of 19 hulls compared to the 5-year average.
Vessel Utilization Rates
U.S.-Flag Great Lakes Fleet
April 1, 2003
| Year | Dry-Bulk Carriers | Cement Carriers | Tankers | Total |
| 2003 | 13 | 4 | 2 | 19 |
| 2002 | 27 | 4 | 3 | 34 |
| 2001 | 29 | 4 | 3 | 36 |
| 2000 | 41 | 4 | 6 | 51 |
| 1999 | 40 | 4 | 7 | 51 |
| 5-Year Average | 30 | 4 | 4 | 38 |
Date of Publication: April 7, 2003.
