It is a narrow beam design which performs very well in light winds. This large model which belongs to a modeler in Penarth, Wales, is 61 inches long with a 9 inch beam. It was built on a moulded GRP hull supplied by Martin's Models. It is electrically powered and uses rechargeable sealed lead acid cells for power and ballast. This is a typical example of a medium sized model tugboat.
Tugboats are extremely popular with scale modelers.
Some tugs can turn in their own length. The wider beam produces a model which is very stable on the water. A removable fin and lead bulb makes the model very stable in the water. I took this photograph in Brixham harbour on the South Coast of England. I was amazed to discover that these craft are about 100 feet in length when their bowsprit is fully extended.