M/V Lewis B. Strait (Formerly M/V Joe Bobzien)
The M/V Lewis B. Strait is one of the most powerful towboats operating on the inland river system today. Built by Jeffboat in 1978, the vessel spent much of its career as the M/V Joe Bobzien before being renamed Lewis B. Strait. Known throughout the river industry for its size and horsepower, the vessel remains a familiar sight on the Mississippi River and its tributaries.
This model is available as either the current M/V Lewis B. Strait or the former M/V Joe Bobzien.
Vessel Details
• Current Name: Lewis B. Strait
• Previous Name: Joe Bobzien
• Builder: Jeffboat, Jeffersonville, Indiana
• Year Built: 1978
• Length: 180'
• Beam: 52'
• Horsepower: 13,200 HP
• Current Operator: Western Rivers Boat Management
Available Variants
M/V Lewis B. Strait
M/V Joe Bobzien
Model Information
• Scale: 1:245
• Approximate Model Length: 8.82" (224 mm)
• Approximate Model Width: 2.55" (64.5 mm)
• Waterline Display Model
• Produced in durable ASA plastic
• Designed for static display only
• Not intended to float
Availability
• In stock and ready to ship
• Ships within 2 business days
Model Accuracy
Models are produced in the likeness of the vessel and emphasize overall appearance and character rather than exact reproduction of every feature. Most designs are created from photographs and publicly available reference material rather than original construction drawings. Certain details may be simplified, modified, or omitted to improve durability, appearance, and manufacturability at scale.
Related Vessels
The Lewis B. Strait remains one of the best-known high-horsepower towboats operating on the inland waterways. Customers searching for the vessel under its former name, Joe Bobzien, may order either variation through this listing.
Looking for another towboat from this era? Additional river vessel models may be available through the Custom Orders page.
