A New Era Begins
A pirate ship? No problem. Westar’s Sagittarius handled the tow like a pro.
Westar Marine Services Announces Leadership Transition
Since 1976, Westar Marine Services has been a cornerstone of the San Francisco Bay maritime industry, delivering trusted tug, barge, and vessel support services with professionalism and heart. This year marks the beginning of a new chapter, as longtime co-owners Mary McMillan and Wendy Morrow step into retirement after more than four decades of visionary leadership.
As one of the few woman-owned marine companies in the U.S., Westar's legacy is one of resilience, excellence, and progress in a traditionally male-dominated field. Under McMillan and Morrow’s guidance, Westar earned its reputation as a go-to provider for marine transportation, harbor support, and offshore logistics throughout the Bay Area and beyond.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Now, Westar Marine Services turns toward its next era with new ownership and leadership at the helm. Siblings Charley and Raymond Bell have acquired the business, stepping in with a renewed commitment to operational excellence and community impact. Together with Managing Director Pat Neal, they aim to both honor Westar’s rich history and lead its evolution into a future-forward marine services provider.
“We’re proud to carry on the legacy Mary and Wendy built,” said Charley Bell. “They’ve created something truly special here, and we’re committed to preserving that integrity while growing to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry.”
The new leadership team brings a focus on:
Sustainability and environmental responsibility
Workforce development and next-generation training
Expanded capabilities across the West Coast workboat market
Continued investment in safety and service excellence
Looking Ahead
With this transition, Westar Marine Services reaffirms its commitment to the Bay Area maritime community — and looks ahead with energy, innovation, and a deep respect for the sea.
To explore our full range of marine services or to connect with our team, visit westarmarineservices.com.
