Maritime Partners Expands with Acquisition of Centerline Logistics in Major Deal

Maritime Partners Completes Acquisition of Centerline Logistics

On August 29, 2025, Maritime Partners, LLC, a prominent figure in marine transportation, announced the successful acquisition of Centerline Logistics Corporation. Centerline is recognized as a leader in the industry, operating in key areas along the West Coast, East Coast, and Gulf Coast of the United States. This strategic acquisition, which was first disclosed on June 24, 2025, reinforces Maritime Partners’ ambition to diversify and enhance its portfolio of marine assets.

Details of the Acquisition

The deal finalized on August 28, 2025, integrates Centerline into Maritime Partners’ growing lineup of reputable marine companies. Centerline will continue to maintain its management team, ensuring stability and continuity. Notably, Matt Godden, the CEO of Centerline, will remain as both CEO and a minority investor, further solidifying the leadership transition.

Bick Brooks, CEO of Maritime Partners, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming Centerline into their portfolio. "Centerline's extensive operations involving Jones Act-qualified liquid petroleum barges position them as one of the best in the industry. Their commitment to operational excellence and customer service aligns perfectly with our mission at Maritime Partners," said Brooks.

Under the new ownership, Centerline aims to leverage its established reputation and operational capabilities to explore further growth opportunities in the competitive maritime landscape. The current team at Centerline has consistently demonstrated a remarkable track record of performance since 2019, allowing them to stand out in a crowded market despite competitive pressures.

What This Means for Centerline

According to Matt Godden, the partnership with Maritime Partners brings the necessary backing and expertise to maintain Centerline’s culture of excellence. Maritime Partners is expected to facilitate the necessary capital and resources to fuel Centerline's growth in the evolving maritime sector. The company has established its place as a reliable partner for significant energy firms, shipping lines, and port authorities, largely due to its exemplary safety record and customer-focused approach, which has been honed over nearly four decades.

Together, Maritime Partners and Centerline are anticipated to navigate the complexities of today’s market effectively. This alliance not only promises potential operational synergies but also the possibility of innovative service offerings for their expanding clientele.

Financial Aspects of the Deal

Maritime Partners collaborated with ATLAS SP Partners to structure a warehouse facility that supports this acquisition, highlighting the company’s robust financial access. This funding ensures that the acquisition is well-supported and allows for future investments in growth initiatives.

About Maritime Partners

Founded in 2015, Maritime Partners has risen to prominence as a leading maritime solutions provider, managing a diverse fleet of about 1,800 vessels focused mainly on the domestic Jones Act trades. The team backing Maritime Partners boasts over 50 years of cumulative experience in essentials such as chartering, asset management, shipbuilding, and financing within the marine asset sector.

About Centerline Logistics

Centerline Logistics is acknowledged as one of the country's largest operators of Jones Act-compliant liquid petroleum barges. They offer a plethora of vital maritime services, including bunkering, terminal transportation, and ship assist, serving a broad network across the U.S. Coasts. Centerline's growing prominence results from its strong focus on operational reliability, safety, and an unwavering commitment to customer service.

This acquisition signals a bright future for both Maritime Partners and Centerline Logistics as they embark on this collaborative journey aimed at reshaping the maritime industry's landscape.