Tugboat

Tugboats play a crucial role in ports worldwide, ensuring safety and efficiency in port maneuvers. Due to their immense size and weight, large ships have limited maneuverability in confined waters, requiring assistance from smaller but extremely powerful vessels. Thanks to their impressive power and exceptional agility, tugboats assist in precisely guiding ships into and out of ports.

Always ready for immediate intervention, tugboats are equipped with towing winches, enabling them to tow damaged vessels in case of breakdowns or emergencies. While towing, they can slow down or turn a ship according to the pilot's instructions. Additionally, their powerful firefighting system, consisting of two water cannons with a capacity of over 1,300 m³/h each, allows them to play a key role in firefighting operations at sea and in the port.

The power of the engines on these vessels is truly impressive. Tugboats used in ports worldwide can generate immense horsepower, ensuring high efficiency even in the most demanding conditions.

The ASD (Azimuthing Stern Drive) propulsion system, used in this tugboat, consists of two azimuth thrusters that can rotate 360 degrees independently. This design provides exceptional maneuverability, allowing for quick and precise reactions to changing conditions. This system sets tugboats apart from traditional ships and makes them highly effective in intricate port operations.

The glazed wheelhouse offers a wide field of view, allowing the captain to maintain full control and operate the vessel with precision. At the stern, special twistlock mounts enable the transport of containers or the installation of oil spill booms used in the event of hazardous substance leaks.

While designing this LEGO model, I aimed to replicate its structure and equipment as accurately as possible. Just like in real life, the model’s azimuth thrusters rotate 360 degrees independently, which is one of its key features. The vessel is also equipped with fenders that protect both the tugboat and assisted ships from damage during operations. The dual fenders on the bow allow for effective pushing, one of the most important tasks in port maneuvers.

At the rear of the superstructure, I recreated details such as the air-cooling fan for the engine, the entrance to the vessel, and the staircase leading to the upper deck. The model also features precisely placed mooring elements, including bollards on the bow, stern, and midship, to which mooring lines are secured. The bow, on both sides, includes anchor hawseholes through which the anchor is lowered.

The stern of the tugboat is specially shaped and reinforced to enable the deployment of oil spill containment booms. Additionally, the vessel’s sides feature characteristic structural elements such as entry gates, windows in crew cabins, and hawseholes for mooring lines.

On the upper deck, where the wheelhouse (bridge) is located, I included safety railings, to which liferafts are attached for crew evacuation in case of emergency. The model also incorporates two spotlights on the wheelhouse and a mast with radar, which are essential for the vessel’s navigation.

With over 1,100 pieces, this set provides an engaging and rewarding building experience. Every stage of assembly unveils more details that faithfully capture the defining features of tugboats used in ports worldwide.

imageTugboats are an inseparable part of ports around the world – they are always present and play a vital role in maritime operations. Despite this, tugboats are rarely represented in LEGO’s maritime lineup. This model aims to fill that gap, not only as an impressive display piece but also as a set that allows builders to explore the mechanics and functions of these essential vessels.

Designing this model was an exciting challenge for me – I strived to capture both the appearance and functionality of a tugboat as accurately as possible. It was particularly important to me to include distinctive features such as the azimuth thrusters, the panoramic-view wheelhouse, and technical details that add authenticity to the build.

This model includes moving elements such as independently rotating 360-degree azimuth thrusters and adjustable water cannons, allowing users to simulate real-life tugboat operations. These interactive functions enhance the playability and realism of the set.

This LEGO tugboat is not only an engaging build but also a stunning display piece. With its unique structure, modern design, and attention to detail, it is an eye-catching model that looks fantastic on a shelf, desk, or display case. Its distinctive silhouette, realistic detailing, and industrial maritime style make it an ideal decorative piece for both LEGO enthusiasts and maritime lovers. The compact yet detail-rich design makes it a standout exhibit, perfectly complementing a collection of nautical-themed models.

The model is compatible with other LEGO sets, allowing integration into larger port dioramas or maritime scenes. Additionally, its design facilitates easy modifications, encouraging builders to customize and create their own scenarios.

• Piece Count: 1,196

• Length: 27.5 cm

• Width: 11.5 cm

• Height: 25.5 cm