The U.S.-Flag Great Lakes fleet had 61 of its 69 vessels in service on October 1, a decrease of four hulls compared to a year ago. However, the total should climb to 63 this week with the sailings of the dry-bulk carrier ARTHUR M. ANDERSON and the cement carrier PAUL H. TOWNSEND. Still idled is the self-unloader ELTON HOYT 2ND. Yet to sail this season are the straight-deckers EDWARD L. RYERSON and KINSMAN ENTERPRISE.
Year | Dry-Bulk Carriers | Cement Carriers | Tankers | Totals |
| 1999 | 49 | 6 | 6 | 61 |
| 1998 | 53 | 6 | 6 | 65 |