The tug was ordered in April and delivered 16 weeks later, fitted out to the owner's specific requirements, and ready for immediate use.

Kings Lynn Conservancy Board are the statutory Port, Harbour and Pilotage Authority for Kings Lynn, with Associated British Ports operating an enclosed dock system and a number of riverside berths.

The port is located on the river Ouse, and during 2002 handled 1,019,172 tons of cargo in ships of up to 119m in length and with a maximum draft of 5.5m.

Among the products handled are scrap metal, cereals, fertilisers, stone, sugar beat and timber.

Tidal conditions in the area, adjacent to the Wash, can be challenging and the provision of a suitable small tug is an important feature of port operations, particularly when dealing with larger vessels.

Conservator is a Damen Stantug 1605 tug/workboat, the 266th of its type to be built since 1967. Bearing the same name as its predecessor, the tug is twin-screw vessel of 16.65m in length with a beam of 5.29m and draft of 2.3m. In most respects Conservator is a 'standard' series built vessel, the main exception being important modifications to the bow and fendering. A large rounded bow fender has been put in place above the large vertical push-knee, which forms an integral part of the structure on a Stantug 1605. This alteration was required to minimise damage whilst working with ships in the confines of the enclosed dock system. Additional fendering made up of small aircraft tyres has also been put in place on the forward bulwarks and around the rubbing band aft. The tyres located on the bulwarks are secured on reinforced mountings by the means of stainless steel clamps. An additional 'D' section rubber moulding protects the forward quarters and sides.

Two Caterpillar 3408 TA/C main engines produce a total of 1080bhp to drive twin four blade propellers, rotating within fixed propulsion nozzles. This arrangement gives Conservator a bollard pull of 14.2 tonnes and a free running speed of 10.2 knots, sufficient power to assist the maximum size of ship using the port facilities.

The tug operates as a 'day-boat' with a crew of two and tows from a Mampaey quick-release tow hook. If necessary the vessel can operate as a pilot-boat and may be equipped for survey work.

A number of items were fitted to ensure that the tug meets current MCA rules for operation in its present role. These include an additional emergency battery power supply, a telescopic 'Man overboard' hoist, and additional safety features for operation as a 'stand-in' pilot boat.

Basic galley, washing and toilet facilities are located in the forepeak, adjacent to a large equipment store. The Kings Lynn Conservancy Board also operate their own multi-purpose work vessel Saint Edmund KL and when dealing with the largest ships Conservator is assisted by the launch Staplewear.