Alaska Ship & Drydock

Alaska Ship & Drydock, now known as Vigor Alaska, is one of the most prominent shipbuilding and repair facilities in Alaska. It is located in Ketchikan, a city in Southeast Alaska. Here are some key points to know about the company:

History and Background

• Founding: Originally founded as Alaska Ship & Drydock Inc. (ASD), the company has served as a critical maritime service provider in the Alaskan region.

  
  



• Acquisition: In 2012, ASD was acquired by Vigor Industrial, a major maritime company based in Portland, Oregon. Following the acquisition, it was rebranded as Vigor Alaska.

  
  

Facilities and Capabilities

• Shipyard Location: The main shipyard is situated in Ketchikan, Alaska, and is part of the Ketchikan Shipyard.


• Infrastructure: The facility includes large graving docks, floating drydocks, and extensive fabrication and repair shops, enabling it to handle a wide array of maritime projects.


• Specializations: The shipyard specializes in new ship construction, vessel repair, maintenance, and overhaul services. Their work often includes fishing vessels, research vessels, ferries, and workboats, among others.

Projects and Contributions

• Marine Highway System: One of the significant roles of Alaska Ship & Drydock was in maintaining and building vessels for the Alaska Marine Highway System, a state-run ferry service critical for transportation in the state.


• Local Economy: The company is a crucial employer in the Ketchikan area and has a significant impact on the local economy, providing skilled jobs and supporting a range of ancillary industries.

Environmental and Community Initiatives

• Sustainability: Like many modern shipyards, Vigor Alaska places an emphasis on sustainable practices, including waste management, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly technologies.


• Community Engagement: The company often participates in local community events and initiatives, strengthening its bond with the people of Ketchikan and surrounding areas.

Strategic Importance

• Geographical Advantages: Located in Southeast Alaska, the shipyard is strategically positioned to serve the maritime needs of the region, including commercial shipping, fishing fleets, and tourism-related vessels.


• Investment in Growth: Vigor Industrial has invested in expanding the capabilities and infrastructure of the Ketchikan Shipyard, making it one of the most advanced maritime facilities in Alaska.

Overall, Alaska Ship & Drydock, now operating under the Vigor Alaska brand, is a cornerstone of the maritime industry in the region, playing a vital role in shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance, and contributing significantly to the local and state economy.