Built in 1978, by Halter Marine Services Incorporated of New Orleans, Louisiana (hull #696) as the Cheryl Ann for the Jackson Marine Corporation of Houston, Texas.

The Jackson Marine Corporation was owned by the Halliburton Corporation of Houston, Texas. The company owned a total of ninety vessels. Consisting mainly of offshore tugs, and supply vessels. With some chemical transport and well stimulation vessels.

In 1974, the tug was no longer listed in domestic documentation. It is believed she was reflagged foreign for work in the Persian Gulf.

In 1985, Zapata Marine Service, Gulf Fleet Marine Incorporated, and Jackson Marine Services merged to form Zapata Gulf Marine Service Incorporated of Houston, Texas. Where the tug retained her name.

In 1992, Zapata Gulf Marine Incorporated merged with Tidewater Marine Incorporated of New Orleans, Louisiana. Where the tug retained her name.

Powered by two, sixteen cylinder, Caterpillar D-399 diesel engines. With Reintjes reduction gears, at a ratio of 6:1. Turning two, fixed pitch, high efficiency, four bladed, 100(in) by 76(in), propellers For a rated 2,200 horsepower.

Her electrical service is provided by two, 75kW generator sets. Driven by two, GM 6-71 diesel engines.

The tug's towing gear consists of a double drum tow winch, equipped with 2,000(ft) of 1.75(in) diameter stainless steel towing wire. The towing winch is driven by a single, GM 6-71 diesel engine.
(Captain Eric Takakjian)