The service is designed specifically for smaller, more straightforward towage operations, which may not need the powerful bollard pull or sophisticated technology inherent in the core Adsteam fleet, but still require the skills, experience and quality of service synonymous with the Adsteam brand. Both tugs are highly manoeuvrable Voith tractors, each with a bollard pull of 30 tons, drawn from elsewhere in the Adsteam fleet. HT Sword is the former Sun Thames and HT Sabre the Lady Susan.

Although part of the Adsteam stable, Humber Tugs will operate as an entirely independent business. Mr Chris Read has been brought in from the Felixstowe operation to manage the new business and a new marketing manager and human resources professional have also been appointed to help drive the new service forward. Crews are expected to be predominantly British, though the company will reserve the right to select the best candidates for the job, irrespective of nationality. All new crews will have to demonstrate high levels of technical expertise and will be subject to comprehensive health & safety induction training and procedures.

Commenting on the introduction of the new service, Adsteam CEO (Europe), Stephen Eastwood said, 'We have seen significant changes on the Humber over recent years and it's now becoming a highly segmented market. What we are doing in launching Humber Tugs is to respond to these market changes, maintain our competitive edge and ultimately protect the long term future of our business on the Humber. Adsteam's commitment to containing costs and reshaping the business as a 21st century operation has already been demonstrated by the introduction last year of three person crewing across its UK ports. The company continues to work closely with its employees to ensure that working practices and manning levels remain in line with further, anticipated changes in the marketplace.'