The major U.S.-Flag lines had 66 of their 69 vessels in service on August 1, an increase of one ship compared to a year ago. The active fleet is expected to number 67 when a grain carrier returns to service later this week.
Only two U.S.-Flag lakers have not seen service in 1998 - the small cement carrier E. M. FORD and the grain carrier KINSMAN ENTERPRISE. While both ships could be activated to meet increased demand for those specific products, neither vessel is currently scheduled to sail this year.
| Year | Dry-Bulk Carriers | Cement Carriers | Tankers | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 52 | 7 | 7 | 66 |
| 1997 | 52 | 7 | 6 | 65 |
