Tradesman and Trueman areextremely compact shiphandling tugs of 22.3m in length, with a beam of 8.5m and gross tonnage of 181 tons. Both vessels are fitted with Niigata main engines supplying a total of 2600bhp to twin 'Z-Peller' fully azimuthing propulsion units. This gives the pair a useful bollard pull of 32 tonnes and a free running speed of 11.5 knots.

In keeping with most stern-drive tugs they tow over the bow from a towing winch on the foredeck. A conventional, quick release, tow hook is fitted aft to tow over the stern if required. Exceptional all round vision is afforded from a small centrally located wheelhouse.

After some preliminary work and trials in Hull, Tradesman and Trueman entered service undertaking shiphandling and general towage operations in Hull, Grimsby and Immingham.

It is understood that SMS Towage Ltd have secured sufficient work in the area to necessitate a rapid expansion in its new fleet and that further acquisitions are already under negotiation.