Grand River Navigation

Grand River Navigation At Grand River Navigation Company, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S.

From our vessel crews to our shoreside teams, we are united by a shared commitment to safety, teamwork, and looking out for one another every day. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime, Inc and began operating in 2000, leasing a barge and purchasing a tug. Since that time, the Company has grown to become the marine transportation provider with the largest fleet operating on the Great Lakes tod

ay. Grand River Navigation operates a fleet of ten self-unloading bulk carriers in the U.S., which includes three articulated tug and barge units. These vessels transport a diverse array of dry bulk commodities including limestone, coal, iron ore, salt, grain and other commodities for more than 50 long-standing customers in the construction, electric utility, integrated steel and food industries. The bulk of Grand River’s vessels operate in the River Class market segment, where we are the undisputed market leader. River Class vessels, which we define as being less than 650 feet in overall length, can operate in ports that are restricted from receiving larger vessels.

Last season, the crew of the M/V H. Lee White logged 1,059 weather observations, earning 3rd Place in the National Weath...
06/18/2026

Last season, the crew of the M/V H. Lee White logged 1,059 weather observations, earning 3rd Place in the National Weather Service's Voluntary Observing Ship Program. Every observation helps forecasters paint a clearer picture of conditions across the Great Lakes and beyond. Congratulations to the crew on this outstanding achievement!

This stunning view of Chicago from the M/V CALUMET captures more than a great skyline—it reflects the commitment, skill,...
06/16/2026

This stunning view of Chicago from the M/V CALUMET captures more than a great skyline—it reflects the commitment, skill, and teamwork of the people behind the lens.

We’re proud to have the best people on the lakes, delivering results and representing GRN with excellence every day.

Manitowoc fueling up in Detroit before the next leg of the journey. The crew and cargo may get the spotlight, but countl...
06/10/2026

Manitowoc fueling up in Detroit before the next leg of the journey. The crew and cargo may get the spotlight, but countless support operations like this are vital to keep Great Lakes commerce moving 24/7.

The John J. Boland and ATB Maumee/Victory making a trip under the Mackinac Bridge look like a team sport. Two vessels, o...
06/08/2026

The John J. Boland and ATB Maumee/Victory making a trip under the Mackinac Bridge look like a team sport. Two vessels, one iconic backdrop, and another day moving essential cargo across the Great Lakes.

06/04/2026

As the sun dips below the horizon, the ATB Maumee/Victory keeps moving. Another day's work completed on the Lakes, and another reminder of why this industry is so special.

At Grand River Navigation, training isn’t just a requirement — it’s a commitment to safety and preparedness.Our crews op...
06/01/2026

At Grand River Navigation, training isn’t just a requirement — it’s a commitment to safety and preparedness.
Our crews operate far from shore, where immediate help isn’t always available. That’s why we take first aid training seriously and ensure every crew member is ready to respond when it matters most.
Through hands-on, on-the-job training, our experienced instructors bring real-world scenarios to life — even using simulated injuries to create realistic, high-impact learning environments. The result is a highly engaged crew that builds confidence and critical skills under pressure.
Our mariners approach this training with focus, professionalism, and motivation. They know these skills are not only essential onboard, but also valuable in everyday life — at home, in their communities, and wherever they may be needed.
Prepared crews make safer ships. And at GRN, safety always comes first.

From cargo operations to co****le championships — the American Mariner crew made the most of Memorial Day onboard with s...
05/29/2026

From cargo operations to co****le championships — the American Mariner crew made the most of Memorial Day onboard with ship Olympics, great weather, and even better company.

****letournament

05/27/2026

Come see Grand River Navigation at the Maritime Institute - West Career Fair, in Norfolk, VA, this Friday! Open to everyone from 10–2. Hope to see you there!

A quiet sunrise on the lakes this Memorial Day. Today we pause to remember the courage, sacrifice, and service of those ...
05/25/2026

A quiet sunrise on the lakes this Memorial Day. Today we pause to remember the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who gave their lives for our freedom. From everyone at Grand River Navigation, thank you.

More shots of some excellent work aboard the Manitowoc — this time from a part of the vessel you don’t often get to see....
05/23/2026

More shots of some excellent work aboard the Manitowoc — this time from a part of the vessel you don’t often get to see. Engineer Hunter and Conveyorman Andy changing engine heads and keeping things running behind the scenes.

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Traverse City, MI
49686

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