Samson Tug & Barge

Sometimes, all we need is a moment to pause and soak in the beauty around us.

Although "towboat" and "tugboat" are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes. A towboat is designed solely for pushing, while a tugboat can both push and pull. Depending on the scenario, a tugboat might push a vessel or large object directly or pull it with a tow line. This versatility makes tugboats essential for maneuvering barges and large vessels in and out of ports, as well as handling various other tasks.

Protecting our waters means protecting the wildlife that call them home. Happy National Wildlife Day! Let's work together to preserve the beauty and balance of our natural world.

At Samson, we're excited to wish everyone a Happy National Dog Day! To celebrate our beloved four-legged family members, we couldn’t resist sharing some photos. These beautiful pups belong to our Ketchikan team and are always eager to lend a helping paw at work. Meet Takiina, Boomer, Trouble, and Cadilac! A big thank you to our Ketchikan team for sharing these wonderful pictures!

Tugging along with a view!

On the morning of July 24, 2024, Bethany Derda of Samson's Dispatch and Annika Hansen attended a ceremony at South Lake Union for the arrival of a "Mother Tree." This 40-foot log, destined to be carved into a canoe by a master carver for his granddaughter, belongs to the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska.

It was heartwarming to see their family, tribal members, and community come together to celebrate. The log's journey from Thorne Bay, Alaska, to Seattle took three years, involving careful coordination and approval. Samson managed the shipment, and the family invited Bethany to the delivery and celebration, with Annika also joining. It was a memorable experience!

Did you know tugboats were first introduced in March 1802? Built by William Symington in 1801 as a paddlewheel, it became the first official tugboat when Symington added his patented steam engine the following year.

Navigating the serene beauty of open waters and majestic mountains on another successful journey. Our tug and barge company takes pride in delivering excellence while embracing the natural wonders around us. Every voyage is a testament to our dedication and the incredible landscapes we traverse.

Busy day at Samson Tug and Barge! We're loading up a variety of cargo, including vehicles, boats, and more. Our team ensures everything is safely secured and ready for transport. Trust us to handle all your shipping needs with precision and care.

Celebrating the rich heritage, wisdom, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples around the world. Today and every day, we honor their contributions to culture, environment, and society. Let's stand together in respect and support for their rights and traditions.

August 7 is celebrated as National Lighthouse Day. Despite the development of advanced navigation technology, many lighthouses continue to shine brightly for seafarers. Let's honor their legacy and the maritime history they represent. The photo above features The Sitka Lighthouse, also known as the Rockwell Lighthouse, constructed in 1983.

Working hard on the barge with the stunning Seattle skyline as our backdrop! 📸 Taken from Alki Beach in Seattle.

Samson is dedicated to serving the Alaskan community, offering reliable hauling services year-round. From seafood and construction materials to groceries and general re-supply items, we ensure your essentials reach their destinations on schedule.

Big thanks to Maggie for capturing this fantastic shot of one of our containers making the transition from sea to land!

We often have the chance to capture stunning shots like this, but we never take them for granted! Our Samson crew is always ready for the next great snapshot. A big thanks to Captain Ian Jones for this amazing photo!

Samson Tug and Barge began as a horse and cart operation delivering materials and goods to mining camps. Known as Baggen Transfer, George Baggen Sr. based the company in Juneau. In 1937. Several years later and a move to Sitka, Baggen and his son George Jr. founded Samson Tug and Barge with a pair of tugs that provided freight hauling services throughout Southeast Alaska.

Nothing beats the tranquility of an Alaskan summer day! Our crew is surely enjoying the views in Valdez.

Sailing the Blueberry Seas! 🚢🌊 Did you know that July is National Blueberry Month? We're lucky to travel through some of the best blueberry territory around!

From lush forests and mountains to coastal areas, you can find various blueberries thriving in the wild. In Washington, discover sweet lowbush and juicy highbush blueberries. In Alaska, enjoy flavorful alpine and hardy bog blueberries.

What variety do you collect? What’s your favorite way to enjoy them? Share your recipes, fun facts, or memorable blueberry-picking adventures! ⬇️ Drop your comments below, and let's celebrate these little blue gems together. 💙

Let's give Annika a big round of applause for her hard work and dedication! She consistently goes above and beyond and is an invaluable member of our team. Thank you, Annika, for all that you do. Keep shining!

Breathtaking day in Valdez! One of the many stunning ports we visit in Alaska.

📷: Maggie

Happy Fourth of July from all of us at Samson Tug and Barge! Wishing you a day filled with freedom, fireworks, and fun with loved ones.