NEW BEDFORD, MA, October 2025— After sustaining extensive damage in a December 2024 fire, the tug Lucinda Smith has returned to the water with a fresh start powered by Mitsubishi S12R-Y3MPTAW-3 Tier 3 engines rated at 1260HP @ 1600RPM each. The repower was completed by Windward Power with support from Laborde Products, giving the rebuilt vessel renewed strength and reliability for her work on the East Coast.
Built in 1975 for the U.S. Navy as YTB-140, the Lucinda Smith has sailed under multiple owners and through several repowers across the country. That long history nearly came to an end with the New Bedford fire, but operator Robert B. Our Company chose to invest in a full rebuild, with Mitsubishi power at the center of her comeback.
“The fire was a setback, but it didn’t change the value of this vessel,” said Gary Eleniefsky, Vice President of Windward Power. “By repowering with Mitsubishi, we knew the Lucinda Smith would return stronger. Laborde’s team was there with the support and pipeline to make sure this rebuild came together the right way.”
For Laborde Products, the Lucinda Smith project represents both resilience and partnership.
“Seeing a vessel come back after something like this is rewarding,” said Brian Laborde, President & CEO of Laborde Products. “Our role was to stand alongside Robert B. Our Company and Windward Power to deliver engines and support that extend the Lucinda Smith’s story, not end it. That’s the type of work that keeps us motivated.”
The decision to move forward with Mitsubishi was also about confidence in uptime and service.
The Lucinda Smith’s return adds a new chapter to her nearly 50-year history, underscoring the durability of steel-hulled tugs and the value of dependable partnerships. With her rebuild complete and new Mitsubishi power at the core, she is back to work in New England waters.
Talk to a Local Rep to learn more about Mitsubishi repower solutions that extend vessel life and reliability.
About Laborde Products
Laborde Products keeps workboats working by acting as an extension of your crew. From Mitsubishi marine engines to local service and application support, the team stays close to your operation with the training, parts, and expertise needed to keep schedules on track.
About Windward Power
Based in Fairhaven, MA, Windward Power is a locally owned business serving East Coast operators with marine diesel engine sales, service, and parts. Founded in 2006, the company is built on simple principles: offering quality products and backing them with dependable service.
About Robert B. Our Company
Established in 1957, Robert B. Our Company has evolved into a leading, multigenerational, family-owned and operated site and construction firm. Built on a foundation of hard work, honesty, and integrity, the company offers a comprehensive range of services, including residential and commercial site development, utility installation, marine construction, and landscaping. With a skilled team of professionals and a commitment to quality workmanship, Robert B. Our Company continues to lay the groundwork for successful projects throughout southeastern Massachusetts.
