The major U.S.-Flag Great Lakes carriers had 57 of their 70 vessels in service on April 1, an increase of 14 hulls compared to a year ago. In all probability, this is the busiest start to navigation in the modern-day history of Great Lakes shipping.
The active fleet will increase to 63 hulls by mid-April, with additional hulls expected to be activated in May and June.
| Year | Dry-Bulk Carriers | Cement Carriers | Tankers | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 46 | 5 | 6 | 57 |
| 1997 | 35 | 4 | 4 | 43 |
