The major U.S.-Flag Lakes lines had 65 of their 69 vessels in service on December 1, an increase of one vessel compared to a year ago. As of the survey date, only one U.S.-Flag laker, the cement carrier PAUL H. TOWNSEND, had officially ended its 1998 season.
| Year | Dry-Bulk Carriers | Cement Carriers | Tankers | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 53 | 6 | 6 | 65 |
| 1997 | 52 | 5 | 7 | 64 |
