Crowley Maritime
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Maritime, logistics, shipping |
| Founded | 1892 |
| Founder | Thomas Crowley |
| Headquarters | Jacksonville , United States |
Area served | Global |
Key people | Thomas B. Crowley Jr. (president, chairman, CEO as of 1994) |
| Products | Vessel ownership and management, global supply chain logistics |
Number of employees | 5300 (2016) |
Crowley Maritime Corporation, commonly known as Crowley, is a privately held business headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. Established in 1892 by Thomas Crowley, it remains a family- and employee-owned company focused on vessel ownership, management, and comprehensive global supply chain logistics.
By 2016, Crowley was recognized as the 13th largest private company in Florida, employing around 5,300 people internationally and generating revenues of approximately $2.2 billion. Its diverse fleet comprises more than 300 vessels, including RO-RO and LO-LO ships, tankers, articulated tug-barges (ATBs), tugs, and barges. The company's operations are supported by an extensive network of terminals, warehouses, tank farms, and specialized transportation equipment.
History
The origins of the company trace back to Thomas Crowley’s acquisition of an 18-foot Whitehall rowboat used for ferrying personnel and supplies across San Francisco Bay. Incorporated as Thomas Crowley and Brothers in the late 1890s, the firm expanded its offerings to include bay wing services and ship assist operations.
In 1994, leadership transitioned to Thomas B. Crowley Jr., who took over as president, chairman, and CEO, steering the company’s strategic direction.
After the devastating Haiti earthquake in 2010, Crowley partnered with the U.S. Transportation Command to resume cargo handling for humanitarian aid efforts. The company contributed $80,000 to the American Red Cross and facilitated the transport of nearly 15,000 emergency shelter units.
Also in 2010, Crowley broadened its Alaska fuel distribution network by acquiring wholesale rights to eight Shell Oil service stations and overseeing fuel sales at 17 independent locations.
Between 2018 and 2019, Crowley launched two LNG-powered Combination RORO (ConRo) vessels named El Coquí and Taino, constructed by VT Halter Maritime. These environmentally friendly ships offer enhanced cargo capacity of up to 2,400 TEU while maintaining speeds of 22 knots, strengthening Crowley's market position.
In 2024, Crowley introduced the eWolf, the first all-electric tugboat in the United States—an important step toward greener maritime solutions. That year also marked a strategic alliance with SEACOR Holdings to establish Fairwater Joint Venture, a separate entity aimed at expanding their global operational reach.
Acquisitions
- In 2001, Crowley purchased Marine Transport Corporation, a company specializing in petroleum and chemical transportation.
- The following year, it acquired Speed Cargo Services, a non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC), and in 2003 added Apparel Transportation—a Central American logistics firm serving the apparel sector.
- In 2005, Crowley expanded its fuel distribution capabilities by acquiring assets from Northland Fuel, LLC—including Yukon Fuel Company and Service Oil and Gas—and also bought Titan Maritime LLC.
- To strengthen its engineering expertise, Crowley acquired Seattle-based Jensen Maritime Consultants—a naval architecture and marine engineering firm—in 2008.
- In 2009, it purchased Customized Brokers of Miami, a customs clearance company specializing in perishable and refrigerated shipments.
- Further growth occurred in 2015 with the acquisition of SeaFreight Agencies based in Miami to enhance logistics service offerings.
- Most recently in 2023, Crowley expanded its logistics portfolio through the acquisition of Tamarind Consolidated.
September 21, 2011
A barge operated by Crowley Maritime, transporting 140,000 gallons of aviation fuel along with 5,800 gallons of gasoline, became detached from its tugboat near the western coast of Alaska amid turbulent sea conditions. The vessel was brought back under control later that same day.
March 10, 2025
Crowley-managed oil tanker MV Stena Immaculate was involved in a collision with the container ship MV Solong in the North Sea, close to East Yorkshire. Following the impact, the tanker ignited and experienced several explosions; however, all crew members were successfully evacuated without injury.