The MAIB has this week published a safety warning video addressing the tragic capsize of the conventional tug Biter in February 2023, an incident that tragically resulted in the loss of two lives. The video, issued within the MAIB Safety Bulletin 1/2026, highlights critical lessons regarding towage planning, the impact Read more
Insight, Leadership and Collaboration Across the Towage Industry. The BTA invites its members, and all those with an interest in towage, to a two‑day gathering that brings the towage community together to connect, share expertise and engage with leaders shaping the future of UK towage. The programme opens with an Read more
The British Tugowners Association (BTA) has introduced a new Firefighting Emergency Action Card to support tug crews when called upon to assist in shipboard fire emergencies. This quick-reference card sets out essential steps and questions for crews before, during, and after an incident, ensuring interventions are carried out with safety Read more
The British Tugowners Association (BTA), UK Maritime Pilots’ Association (UKMPA) and the Workboat Association (WA) have jointly published “Gog Ropes: Industry Advice”, a new guidance document aimed at improving safety in conventional towage operations. This resource provides practical recommendations for the safe and effective use of gog ropes on conventional tugs, incorporating lessons Read more
The 2025 BTA Annual Safety Seminar was held on Thursday 6 November, at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in Southampton, kindly sponsored by Sanmar, Boluda Towage and Damen. The event welcomed over 90 attendees including tug masters, pilots, marine superintendents, P&I clubs, members of the MCA MAIB, lawyers, workboat crew, harbour Read more
The 2024 BTA Annual Safety Seminar was held on Thursday, 14 November, at The Leith Cruise Terminal in Edinburgh, kindly hosted by Forth Ports. The event welcomed over 100 attendees, including representatives from towage operators, pilots, port and harbour authorities, insurers, accident investigators, regulators, and manufacturers. The report of proceedings Read more
Following the annual BTA Conference, Edwin Lampert from Riviera Maritime wrote an article on the presentation by Simwave’s Ryan Verhagen on how their simulators can significantly enhance emergency response scenarios. The BTA extends its gratitude to the speakers and Edwin for their expertise and professionalism, which contributed to the success of the conference. Read more
The 2023 BTA Annual Safety Seminar took place at The Insurance Hall in London on Thursday 16 November with a record attendance of over 100 registered attendees spanning across towage operators, pilots, port & harbour authorities, insurers, accident investigators and manufacturers. The report of proceedings goes through the event in Read more
The BTA Annual Safety Seminar will be held 16 November 2023. Please save the date to ensure you are able to join us for a comprehensive Seminar, designed to equip tugboat operators, captains, and crew with the knowledge and skills to enhance safety and operational performance. The event will be Read more
In a series of interviews with members and associate members, the BTA will be publishing information regarding the businesses and people that make up the Association and industry. Our second interview from February 2023 is with Jörg Majewski from SCHOTTEL. What is your career & professional background and how did Read more