James Turecamo 30 inches Tugboat Model

Own a handcrafted replica of one of New York City's most historic tugboats. The James Turecamo was built to serve the demanding environment of one of the world's busiest harbors, becoming a dependable workhorse that supported daily maritime operations for decades. Today, this iconic harbor tug stands as a meaningful symbol of American maritime heritage, representing the strength, reliability, and hardworking spirit of classic commercial vessels.

Our 30-inch handcrafted James Turecamo model faithfully captures the authentic appearance of the original tugboat. Each model is individually built by experienced craftsmen using the traditional plank-on-frame construction method—the same principle used in authentic wooden shipbuilding. We select only premium hardwoods, including Western Red Cedar, Teak, and Mahogany, to ensure exceptional durability, fine craftsmanship, and a timeless finish.

Every element is carefully recreated, from the classic wheelhouse and rugged towing bitts to the elegant hull lines, detailed deck fittings, mast, and traditional tugboat equipment. Rather than being mass-produced, each James Turecamo model is individually handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, creating a museum-quality display piece worthy of any tugboat, maritime, or commercial vessel collection.

One of the defining characteristics of the James Turecamo is her timeless industrial design, featuring a distinctive vintage wheelhouse, practical towing equipment, and classic harbor tug profile. This handcrafted wooden model beautifully recreates her graceful hull lines, functional deck layout, towing gear, and authentic maritime details, capturing the hardworking character and historic significance of one of New York City's most recognizable tugboats.

The 30-inch model offers the perfect balance of craftsmanship, practicality, and value. Large enough to showcase the James Turecamo's classic tugboat profile, detailed wheelhouse, towing equipment, and authentic harbor vessel features, yet compact enough to fit comfortably on bookshelves, office desks, display cabinets, or mantels, it is an excellent choice for both home and office display. Its convenient size also makes it more affordable, easier to ship worldwide, and a meaningful gift for tugboat enthusiasts, maritime collectors, harbor history lovers, or anyone passionate about classic working vessels.

Each piece is individually handcrafted, and production typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the model's size and complexity. Throughout the process, we'll keep you updated with detailed progress photos at every major milestone, allowing you to review the craftsmanship and approve each stage before we move forward.

You'll receive photos during:

Hull construction
Deck detailing and superstructure assembly
Final painting and finishing

Your satisfaction comes first. We proceed to the next stage only after you've reviewed the previous one.

Secure Worldwide Delivery

Once you approve the completed model, it will be carefully packed in a custom-built wooden shipping crate with multiple layers of protective cushioning to ensure it arrives safely anywhere in the world.

Custom Orders Available

Looking for a different size or a personalized version? We offer custom dimensions, modifications, and bespoke designs upon request. Simply contact our team to discuss your project.

Bring home a handcrafted tribute to one of New York City's most historic tugboats. Whether you're expanding a maritime collection, decorating your office, or searching for a meaningful gift, our handcrafted James Turecamo model is built to become a centerpiece you'll be proud to display for years to come.

Contact us today to begin building your custom James Turecamo model.

History
The James Turecamo is a classic American tugboat that reflects the proud heritage of East Coast commercial towing. Built in 1969 by the renowned Matton Shipyard in Cohoes, New York (Hull No. 338), she was constructed for Turecamo Harbor and Coastal Towing Corporation, a leading towing company in New York Harbor. Measuring 92.4 feet (28.2 m) long with a 27-foot beam, the tug was designed as a low-profile "canaller," featuring a telescoping pilothouse that allowed her to navigate the low bridges of the New York State Canal System while maintaining excellent visibility. Powered by twin Caterpillar 398 diesel engines delivering about 2,000 horsepower, she became a reliable workhorse for towing barges and supporting harbor operations throughout the northeastern United States.

After nearly 30 years with the Turecamo fleet, the tug remained in service when Moran Towing Corporation acquired the company in 1998, keeping her original name in honor of the Turecamo legacy. As one of the few surviving Matton-built canal tugboats, she was recognized as the 2023 Tug of the Year at the Waterford Tugboat Roundup. In 2025, the vessel was acquired by the New York State Marine Highway Transportation Company and renamed Abbey K, continuing her long career while preserving an important chapter of American maritime history.