Tugboat business adds to fleet with Superman

Hessle-based tugboat firm SMS Towage has unveiled one of its most powerful tugboats yet.

The newly built £5.8m Superman was officially named at a ceremony at Hull’s Albert Dock after being delivered from the Sanmar shipyard, near Istanbul.

With twin Caterpillar engines, producing 4,200 Kw of power and generating 72 tonnes bollard pull, Superman will go into service on the south bank of the Humber to meet growing demand in the tanker and bulk carrier sector.

SMS Towage, which is the UK’s largest independent tugboat operator, now has seven Sanmar-built tugs working on the Humber or at other UK ports as part of its 15-strong fleet.

Director Gareth Escreet said the acquisition was in line with the company’s invest and renew programme, enabling it to maintain a modern fleet, as well as reflecting the strength of the Humber economy.

“The current outlook is very positive,” he said. “Business is vibrant for us on the Humber and we see this as an upward trajectory.

“Since starting out in in 2003 we have aimed to be responsive and cost-effective which has enabled us to grow on the Humber and expand into the Bristol Channel and Belfast Harbour. Our fleet can take on virtually any challenge whether in port or offshore.

Chairman Paul Escreet said: “The previous Superman is now with new owners in Murmansk who were so impressed with her name that they asked if they could retain it.

“The new Superman is chunkier, giving extra room on board for the crew and she is very manoeuvrable. She is destined for Immingham and other south bank jetties.

“The first Superman to sail on the Humber was in 1923, many years before the comic book hero’s arrival on the scene.”

Amanda Pannett, wife of master mariner Phil Pannett, who spent 11 years with ABP Ports on the Humber, named the new tug.

The Rev Canon Dr Neil Barnes, vicar of Hull Minster, carried out his fifth blessing of an SMS tug over the last few years.