Barges, Trawlers & Tug Boats

Working boats make satisfying display models because so much of what they do sits out on deck. Towing winches, gallows, net drums, wheelhouses, masts, fenders and rails give these models far more to look at than a smooth hulled yacht, and they hold attention at close range.

What is on deck

• Tugs: towing winches, staples, hooks, fenders, mast rigging and fairleads
• Trawlers: gallows, gantries, net drums, warps and shelter decks
• Barges: leeboards, sprit rig, hatch covers and tiller
• General workboats: derricks, hauling gear, bollards and life rafts

Build and finish

Hulls are hand built in timber with brass and cast fittings, painted in traditional working liveries with the boot topping and hull colours these boats carried. Rigging is set up where the vessel had it, and deck equipment is modelled as separate parts rather than moulded in as a block.

Who buys them

People with a connection to the water: harbour and port workers, tug and salvage crews, fishing families, marine engineers and anyone who grew up around a working quay. They also suit pubs, seafood restaurants, coastal holiday lets and marine offices, where a yacht would look out of place.

Common questions

Do you sell tug boat kits as well?

Yes, in our model ship kits section, including kits designed to be converted to radio control. This section is finished models.

Can I get a model of a specific named boat?

Yes, built from your photographs with correct port letters and registration number, as a custom commission.

Are these models weathered?

Most are finished clean. Weathered and worked finishes are available on custom builds if you want the boat as she actually looked in service.