Tugboat workers ratify new contract, ending strike days before tall ships arrive

Tugboat workers for Boston Tow ratified a new contract, ending a weeklong strike days before tall ships are scheduled to arrive for Sail Boston. The workers, represented by Teamsters Local 25, began the work stoppage just over a week before the event, which is expected to start this Saturday. Teamsters said the updated deal includes 100% employer-paid health insurance and “improved wages,” alongside language described as improving respect. In a statement, Teamsters Local 25 President Tom Mari said members held the strike 24/7 through a heatwave and a long holiday weekend before ratifying the agreement on Wednesday. A representative from Reinauer Transportation, Boston Tow’s parent company, confirmed the contract was approved and the strike ended, but did not provide additional details. Boston Tow’s tugs are key for docking and towing in the harbor, and Sail Boston officials had contingency plans if the stoppage continued through the start date.