About

West Coast Tug & Barge Ltd was incorporated in 1976 by its current President, Thomas Olsen. With a single wooden tug, the company’s primary focus was contract log towing in the local waters of the Johnstone Strait and its adjacent inlets.

Transitioning into the 80’s and through 90’s, the company expanded its service offerings into freight transportation and ship assists. This resulted in the purchase and construction of additional steel tugs, as well as a fleet of steel ramp barges. Realizing a dependence on the coastal forest sector, the company’s mandate quickly changed, and a diversified revenue base was prudent.

By the mid 2000’s, the company had experienced a complete reorganization, of which added capacity to its management team with a new General Manger. This transition assisted in the realignment with the changing economics of the coast. The company was rebranded, a new strategy was set forth, operations were streamlined, business functions simplified, and a team orientated environment evolved. The company recruited another member to its management team, adding additional capacity in sales effort to develop and maintain strong client relationships, and identify and pursue new business opportunities. To date, the company has a diversified fleet of three tugs and six barges, with the capacity to take on any marine project the British Columbia coast can offer. The company is now held equally amongst Thomas Olsen, and the next generation, his sons Lukas and Layne.