Aboard a Crowley Tanker – Port of Long Beach

Crowley first reached out to me years ago to license a few tug and articulated tug barge images. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to photograph their tugs at work during ship-assist operations. The next step was a rare one: an assignment aboard one of their tankers during a port call in Long Beach.

Alongside a videographer, I boarded the vessel at anchorage and spent the day documenting life and work on board. We photographed a fire drill, explored the engine room, bridge, galley, staterooms, and captured the ship’s crew in their various roles. This assignment was part of a campaign showcasing the living and working conditions aboard Crowley vessels.

The company had recently outfitted its fleet with Starlink, which has transformed quality of life at sea — making it possible for sailors to video call family, stream movies, and stay connected with friends while on long voyages. What stood out just as much as the technology was the positive crew culture: a team clearly proud of their ship and their work. And yes, the engine room really was that spotless.