Used to maneuver other boats or barges to different locations, tugboats are a vital part of the maritime industry. These mighty vessels are also featured during construction on the water, acting as a crew boat.

Whatever type of job you require them for, you can locate ideal tugboats easily online. The only downside is that you might not be able to view your purchases firsthand. Since these are costly items, you may want to find a way to see the tugboats personally before you buy. In addition, you should consider the following tugboats information before purchasing these maritime vessels:

1. Locate a tugboats provider, and purchase these used maritime vessels straight from the source.

2. Buy brand-new tugboats from a tugboats manufacturer.

3. Find tugboats through a third party, where tugboat buyers are matched up with tugboat sellers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy used tugboats from a tugboats provider

There are plenty of options online when it comes to buying tugboats. Buying your boats from a location nearby can save you on shipping costs, and it can allow for you to personally visit the vessel before purchasing it. If you buy a used tugboat, it can save you tremendously on overall costs.

I recommend: Brusco Tug & Barge provides cost-effective products, such as tugboats, that are environmentally safe. You can find a list of its vessels, along with detailed information such as the year the boats were built and the type of engine. Trawlers Midwest, located in Wisconsin, offers a frequently updated list of tugboats for sale. With more than 30 years of experience, Lee Felterman & Associates sells tugboats and push boats.

Find tugboats right off the assembly line, and purchase brand-new vessels

Most tugboat manufacturers are located in other countries, so that makes it a little more difficult to see the tugboats firsthand. You can find a brand-new tugboat by doing a little extra legwork, but the rewards are worth it. If the boat hasn't been completed, then you can customize your vessel, adding or eliminating extra accessories, making the boat your own.

I recommend: Conrad Shipyard works with commercial and governmental businesses to provide the best in brand-new tugboats. With 12 construction and repair buildings in its arsenal, the turnaround on tugboat construction is quick and efficient. Contact the company to discuss your specific needs. Manitowoc Marine Group is another option for new construction tugboats. With three building facilities, Manitowoc works with commercial businesses as well as the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard to produce quality maritime vessels.

Purchase tugboats through a broker

Sometimes you may worry about the classified listings of tugboats. How do you know the tugboat is legitimate? How do you know the seller is trustworthy? Leave those questions to a professional, and locate a broker to hook you up with people or businesses with tugboats for sale.

I recommend: Maritime Sales prides itself by pairing together tugboat buyers and sellers. Although it lists boats all over the world, you can find some located within the United States. Dredge Brokers unites tugboat enthusiasts together by providing a tugboats list for prospective buyers. If you happen to be a seller, you can list your maritime vessels for free; Dredge adds its commission to the asking price.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't forget to provide insurance for your tugboats. Just as you insure your automobile, purchase insurance to properly operate your vessels.