American Queen 36 inches Riverboat Model

James Turecamo Tugboat – 36-Inch Handcrafted Wooden Model

Own a handcrafted tribute to one of the most recognizable harbor tugboats in the United States. The James Turecamo is a powerful tugboat built for demanding marine operations, including ship assist, towing, docking, and harbor support missions. As part of the Turecamo family of tugboats, this vessel represents the strength, reliability, and tradition of American tugboat service. With its compact yet powerful design, exceptional maneuverability, and important role in supporting commercial shipping operations, James Turecamo stands as a symbol of the hardworking tugboats that keep busy ports operating safely and efficiently.

Our 36-inch handcrafted James Turecamo Tugboat model faithfully captures the distinctive appearance of the original vessel. Each model is individually built by experienced craftsmen using the traditional plank-on-frame construction method—the same principle used in real wooden shipbuilding. We select only premium hardwoods, including Western Red Cedar, Teak, and Mahogany, to ensure exceptional durability, fine detail, and a timeless finish.

Every element is carefully recreated, from the powerful tug hull and compact wheelhouse to the towing equipment, winches, exhaust stacks, navigation lights, railings, deck fittings, and other signature features that define this hardworking harbor tug. Rather than being mass-produced, each model is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a museum-quality display piece worthy of any maritime, commercial shipping, or tugboat collection.

The 36-inch model offers a larger, more commanding display while showcasing an even greater level of craftsmanship and detail. Its increased size allows the James Turecamo's distinctive hull, working deck, towing equipment, and industrial character to stand out more prominently, making it an impressive centerpiece for an office, study, display cabinet, or dedicated collection room. Ideal for tugboat enthusiasts, maritime professionals, harbor workers, and serious collectors, the 36-inch version delivers enhanced realism and visual impact while remaining practical for most display spaces. It is the perfect choice for those seeking a substantial museum-quality model that celebrates the power, reliability, and enduring legacy of this remarkable working vessel.

Each piece is individually handcrafted, with production typically taking 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 the James Turecamo Tugboat. Whether you're expanding a maritime collection, decorating your office, or searching for a meaningful gift for a tugboat enthusiast, ship operator, or maritime professional, 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 Tugboat model.

History
The James Turecamo is a classic American tugboat that represents 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 serving New York Harbor. Measuring 92.4 feet (28.2 m) in length with a 27-foot (8.2 m) beam, the tug was designed as a low-profile canaller, featuring a telescoping pilothouse that enabled her to navigate beneath the low bridges of the New York State Canal System while maintaining excellent visibility. Powered by twin Caterpillar 398 diesel engines producing approximately 2,000 horsepower, she became a dependable 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, retaining her original name in honor of the Turecamo legacy. As one of the few surviving Matton-built canal tugboats, she was named 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.