Spotlight on Gunderson Marine & Iron, responsible for the floating barge pier project at McMurdo Station, Antarctica.
Previously, we shared the ambitious floating barge pier project being built for McMurdo Station in Antarctica. Backed by Old Republic Surety, the unique pier in a remote, high-stakes location is being constructed by Gunderson Marine & Iron — whose history, expertise and innovation make them a perfect fit for a mission of this magnitude.
Based on a 58-acre industrial site along the Willamette River in Portland, Ore., Gunderson Marine & Iron operates the largest side-launch shipyard on the West Coast. Their deep-water facility is fully equipped for constructing all types of river and ocean-going barges, with up to 700 feet of production capacity. From transporting aggregates and heavy equipment to supporting environmental cleanups and energy infrastructure, Gunderson has built nearly every barge type in the industry.
They are the premiere West Coast shipyard for Jones Act-compliant articulated tug barges, deck barges, hopper barges, oil spill response vessels and more. This versatility — coupled with a strong focus on customer service, product development and long-term quality — has earned Gunderson a leading role in U.S. maritime construction.
Gunderson’s story began in 1919 as a one-man repair shop in Portland. As demand grew throughout the Pacific Northwest, by the 1940s the company had expanded its services and earned a reputation for quality shipbuilding. A turning point came in 1941 with their first major government contract, solidifying their place in the industry.
Throughout the 20th century, Gunderson diversified its operations to include barges, tugs, ferries and other complex maritime structures. And although shipbuilding remains a core strength, their portfolio extends far beyond the docks. The company has also played a role in constructing high-tech infrastructure such as bridges and offshore wind platforms. Gunderson Marine & Iron was featured on the Fox Business Network’s Manufacturing Marvels, recognizing the company’s innovation in shipbuilding and complex fabrication.
That portfolio reflects a dedication to addressing contemporary challenges through innovative solutions. Recent projects include the development of clean air and vapor recovery barges, designed to mitigate environmental impacts in maritime operations. Their work on the Polychrome Bridge in Denali National Park and a floating dry dock for Pearl Harbor further exemplifies their capacity to deliver on complex, mission-critical infrastructure.
The floating barge pier at McMurdo Station is just one example of how Gunderson’s capabilities align with the challenges of modern infrastructure. Currently, the station relies on traditional ice piers in winter to allow ships to dock and deliver supplies. The ice piers have to be remade each spring and are melting earlier in the season, making such deliveries more difficult.
The barge is designed with a rake hull that rides on top of the sea ice. It is engineered to withstand the winter in the Antarctic, which is considered to be the harshest environment on earth.
Old Republic Surety is proud to provide bonding support for this critical project, knowing it is in the hands of a company with extensive experience, strong leadership and a legacy built on trust and performance.
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