53 U.S.-Flag Lakers Sailing On January 1, 2004
The active U.S.-flag Lakes fleet totaled 53 vessels on January 1, 2004, an increase of 11 hulls compared to a year ago and the highest January 1 total in a number of years. The large number of vessels still in service reflects the surge in demand for iron ore that necessitated extending the closing date for the Soo Locks to January 25.
Vessel Utilization Rates :
U.S.-Flag Great Lakes Fleet
January 1, 2000-2004
| Year | Dry-Bulk Carriers | Cement Carriers | Tankers | Total |
| 2000 | 44 | 3 | 4 | 51 |
| 2001 | 29 | 4 | 6 | 39 |
| 2002 | 19 | 4 | 4 | 27 |
| 2003 | 35 | 3 | 4 | 42 |
| 2004 | 44 | 4 | 5 | 53 |
| 5-Year Average | 34 | 3 | 4 | 41 |
Date of Publication: January 9, 2004.
