#STRONGCONNECTION
#FAIRPLAY TOWAGE GROUP
More Than 150 Years Of Experience With Tugboats
The FAIRPLAY TOWAGE GROUP is one of the leading tug companies in Europe, operating from Hamburg and with offices throughout Europe. With over 150 years of experience, we offer harbor towage, worldwide offshore and salvage services.
We specialize in long distance towing services for oil rigs, jack-ups and FPSO units in Europe. Combining innovation and maritime expertise, our vessels have carried out major operations such as the Suez Canal clearance in the past. Our emergency tugs, the NORDIC and BALTIC, secured the German Bight from 2011 to 2021. Today, the NORDIC is stationed off Helgoland in the North Sea and the BALTIC off Kühlungsborn in the Baltic Sea. The FAIRPLAY-35 is also stationed as an emergency tug in Stade on the Elbe.
About Us And Our Certifications
Welcome to FAIRPLAY TOWAGE GROUP, a trusted leader in maritime services with a strong focus on certifications. Since 1998, we’ve upheld ISO 9001 for quality management, followed by ISO 14001 for environmental sustainability in 2006, ISO 50001 for energy management in 2011, and ISO 45001 for occupational safety in 2023. These certifications reflect our dedication to delivering top-tier services while prioritizing environmental care, energy efficiency, and the well-being of our teams. Our offshore tugs meet OVID standards, ensuring compliance with the highest industry requirements.
About Us
Pioneering A Low-Emission Future
At Fairplay Towage Group, we are dedicated to sustainability and advancing greener maritime solutions. As the first German shipping company to implement ISO 50001 for energy management, we strive to set new standards in environmental responsibility.
- Committed to a greener future.
Sustainability
A legacy begins.
Birth Hour
Fairplay Towage was established in Hamburg, Germany, by Richard Borchard, focusing initially on tugboat services in European ports.
1866
New Name
The Name "Fairplay" is Born
Carl Tiedemann introduced the name „Fairplay“ when a new tugboat bearing this title entered service, creating a recognizable identity in the maritime industry.
1895
Leadership
Leadership by Richard Borchard
Richard Borchard became the company’s first administrative manager. He formalized the business, registered the company name, and laid the groundwork for future growth.
1898
Incorporation
Official Incorporation
The company was officially incorporated as „Fairplay Schleppdampfschiffs-Reederei Richard Borchard GmbH,“ providing a solid legal and operational foundation for expansion.
1905
Disruption
Impact of World War I
The outbreak of World War I disrupted operations. Several tugboats were requisitioned by the German Navy, limiting Fairplay’s commercial activities.
1914
Rebuilding
Post-War Recovery Begins
After the war, Fairplay prioritized rebuilding its fleet and resuming full operations to meet the increasing demands of post-war maritime trade.
1919
Transition
Loss of the Founder
The passing of founder Richard Borchard marked a significant transition, but the company continued to build on his legacy by strengthening its operations.
1930
Wartime Again
World War II Begins
World War II disrupted operations again, as many vessels were commandeered for military use, significantly impacting the company’s fleet.
1939
Recovery
Rebuilding Begins
The post-war period saw Fairplay focus on rebuilding its fleet and re-establishing itself as a reliable partner for the maritime industry.
1946
Innovation
Diesel Tugboats
Embracing modern technology, Fairplay transitioned to diesel-powered tugboats, which offered greater reliability and efficiency.
1950
Powerful Fleet
Stronger Tugboats
The company introduced more powerful and versatile tugboats, capable of handling larger cargo vessels and meeting the needs of modern shipping.
1960
Offshore
New Markets Entered
Fairplay diversified its operations by entering the offshore support market, broadening its service offerings to include oil and gas exploration.
1970
Modernization
Adopting Advanced Technologies
Fairplay embraced new technologies, including the introduction of computer-aided navigation systems and improved communication tools, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
1980–1989
Partnerships
Collaborations and Growth
Fairplay formed strategic partnerships with other maritime companies, allowing it to enter new markets and provide integrated maritime services across Europe.
2000–2009
Stronger Together
Merger with Bugsier
Fairplay merged with Bugsier Reederei to create one of Europe’s largest tugboat operators, combining fleets and expertise to offer unmatched service in the maritime sector.
2017
#STRONGCONNECTION
A New Era: Rebranding with #StrongConnection
Fairplay Towage Group embarks on a transformative rebrand with a fresh corporate design, emphasizing transparency and modernization. The new identity reflects a dynamic, forward-thinking approach, with the newborn motto #strongconnection highlighting strengthened ties between employees, clients, and partners. A renewed focus on nurturing young talent reinforces Fairplay’s commitment to sustainable growth and innovation within the industry.
2022-2023
1867-1849
Growth
Building a Reputation
Over nearly three decades, Fairplay established itself as a reliable provider of tugboat services, supporting growing trade and expanding its operations locally.
1896–1897
Expansion
Fleet Expansion
With increasing port activity, Fairplay added more vessels to its fleet, enhancing its capacity to serve Hamburg and surrounding areas effectively.
1899–1904
Modernization
Early Modernization Efforts
Fairplay invested in upgrading its fleet with steam-powered tugboats, improving service efficiency and positioning itself for long-term success.
1906–1913
Steam Era
Investing in Steam Technology
Fairplay enhanced its fleet with advanced steam-powered tugboats, enabling faster and more efficient operations to support larger vessels in the port.
1915–1918
Wartime
Wartime Services Amidst Challenges
Fairplay adapted to wartime constraints by focusing on supporting naval operations while maintaining a reduced level of commercial services.
1920–1929
Diversification
New Salvage Services
Fairplay expanded its services by entering the salvage and emergency response market, diversifying its portfolio and increasing its importance in maritime logistics.
1931–1938
Challenges
Modern Growth
Despite economic challenges in the 1930s, Fairplay modernized its fleet and maintained its position as a leading maritime services provider.
1940–1945
Struggles
Operating Through Losses
Fairplay provided critical maritime services during World War II despite suffering heavy losses to its fleet, maintaining its role in German ports.
1947–1949
Full Steam
Back to Business
Fairplay resumed full operations, rebuilding its fleet and meeting the growing demands of German and European ports in the post-war era.
1951–1959
European Reach
Expanding Operations
Fairplay expanded its services beyond German ports, solidifying its position as one of Europe’s leading tugboat operators.
1961–1969
Training
Focus on Safety
Fairplay prioritized safety standards and crew training to ensure reliable and efficient services across its growing operations.
1971–1979
Growth
Expanding Fleet and Services
Fairplay focused on expanding its fleet with larger and more advanced tugboats to meet the increasing demands of modern shipping. The company also began offering specialized towing services for large industrial projects.
1990–1999
European Presence
Strengthening European Operations
With the fall of the Iron Curtain, Fairplay expanded its services into Eastern Europe, solidifying its position as a leader in the European tugboat industry.
2010–2016
Merger
Preparing for Consolidation
Fairplay focused on optimizing its operations and fleet in preparation for the 2017 merger with Bugsier, a key player in the German maritime industry.
2022-2023
Innovation
Funding for Hydrogen-Powered Tugboats
Fairplay received €18.1 million in government funding to develop hydrogen-powered tugboats, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the maritime industry.
2024
Sustainability
Pioneering Maritime Services
Fairplay continues to expand its services and adopt cutting-edge technologies, ensuring it remains a leader in the tugboat and maritime support industry in Europe.
With roots dating back to 1866, the FAIRPLAY TOWAGE Group has grown into one of Europe’s leading maritime service providers, blending tradition with innovation.
