For Albert Miquel Hidalgo Jimenez, working on a tugboat is all about action, engineering and continuous learning. For the past five years, he has been working in the tugboat industry, contributing to manoeuvres, maintenance and the day-to-day operations on board. Today, he works as an AB on board the harbour tug VB Fritzi for Boluda in Lubmin, Germany.
Although Albert already holds a Chief Officer’s licence and ultimately hopes to become a captain, he deliberately chose to work as an AB. Not because he wanted to take a step back, but because he wanted to gain experience with different types of tugboats and operations.
From Catalonia to the world of tugboats
Albert grew up in Catalonia, Spain. During his studies at nautical college, he was introduced to tugboats for the first time. It did not take long before he realised this was the direction he wanted to pursue.
‘I realised during my placement that this type of work really suited me. I enjoy the manoeuvring, the technical side of the job and the practical work on board.’ Over the past five years, he has gained experience on various types of tugboats, including standby operations for offshore platforms, cargo and bunker operations, and harbour towage.
Choosing a new challenge
After several years working in Spain, Albert decided to move to Germany. His goal was clear: to gain experience with modern tugboats and new technologies. ‘The tugboats I worked on before were more traditional. I wanted to learn how to work with modern propulsion systems and different manoeuvring techniques.’
That decision led him to his current project with Boluda in Lubmin, where the VB Fritzi is primarily deployed for LNG operations. ‘For me, it’s all about gaining experience. Tugboats are highly specialised vessels, and every operation is different. By working in different roles, you gain a much better understanding of the entire process.’
Life on board
As an AB, Albert has a varied role. ‘My day usually starts around seven o’clock with maintenance, inspections and preparing the tugboat for the day’s operations. I also assist during manoeuvres and help prepare meals for the crew. Some days are mainly about maintenance, while on others you’re fully involved in operations. That variety is what keeps the work interesting.’
The VB Fritzi mainly assists LNG carriers entering and leaving the terminal in Lubmin. The tugboat also supports other large vessels, including ships involved in offshore wind projects.
‘Large vessels have very little room to manoeuvre. That requires precision and good teamwork. You never know exactly what the next operation will involve, and that’s what makes the work so enjoyable.’
A close-knit crew
Albert works a rotation of 28 days on board followed by 28 days at home in Spain. Living and working together for such a long period makes good teamwork essential.
‘We’re fortunate to have a great crew. Everyone knows their responsibilities, but we’re always willing to help each other. We spend time together, while everyone also has their own space. That balance works really well.’
Continuing to grow
Although Albert already holds his Chief Officer’s licence, he sees his current role as an opportunity to continue developing. Alongside his work, he is completing several STCW courses while gaining experience with different manoeuvres, propulsion systems and vessel types. During his time off, he also joins TOS on vessel deliveries as Chief Officer whenever the opportunity arises, allowing him to further develop his experience while working towards the qualifications needed to become a Master.
‘I want to keep developing myself. In the future, I’d like to move more towards offshore and sea towing.’ One ambition stands out in particular. ‘I’d love to do another long-distance tow, for example collecting a vessel in Barcelona and towing it to Cape Verde. Those kinds of voyages are something I really enjoy.’
Trust in TOS
Albert has been working through TOS since February 2025 and particularly values the personal approach.
‘I’m very happy. If I have a question about my salary or administration, I simply send a message or make a phone call. I always receive a quick response. Communication is straightforward and everyone is approachable.’
One thing is certain for Albert: he wants to keep growing within the maritime industry.
‘I enjoy this work because you’re always learning. Every tugboat, every operation and every day brings something new.’
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