• Is BOLSTER a tugboat?…

Answer:  She is a  rescue-salvage tug.  She assists vessels and is able to tow ships to repair facilities.

• Does BOLSTER run?…. 

Answer:  She was running, then she was laid up.  So, with some work, she can and WILL operate again!!!!

• Is BOLSTER a ship or a boat?…. 

Answer:  She is a small ship.  A boat is any vessel that can be transported as deck cargo on another vessel.  BOLSTER is to large, at 214 feet long.

• Where will BOLSTER be berthed?….

Answer:  During the first year or so, we hope to get a berth at Mare Island, near Vallejo, California.

• What is a fleet tug? ….

Answer:  Our museum represents all general classes of US Naval ocean going towing and/or salvage vessels, from 95’ in length to 214’.

• How much gasoline does BOLSTER carry?…. 

Answer:  BOLSTER has 4 main engines & 3 auxiliary generators.  All are diesel powered & she has tankage for 84,500 gallons.

• What does ARS stand for?… 

Answer:  If you ask the Navy, they will say AUXILIARY RESCUE SALVAGE.  If you ask a crewmember, they will tell you ALWAYS READY SHIP.

• Can anyone volunteer to work on BOLSTER?… 

Answer:  Yes, if you are under 18, you must get parental permission, but ALL are welcome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

• Can a person or group ‘rent’ BOLSTER for an event?….

Answer:  Yes, we will be a maritime museum for the general public but will be available to private parties.

• Does the AMERICAN FLEET TUG MUSEUM accept any donations other than money?… 

Answer:  Yes, as long as the donation can be either used to help advance the museum or sold for cash, again to help maintain BOLSTER and our future ships.

• Future ships?…

Answer:  Our museum has a general goal of restoring BOLSTER but future plans on acquiring two other types of fleet tugs.  We hope to someday get an ATF (204’) and an ATA (143’).  Our future is limitless…  Come join us!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!