Founded in 1971. The SS Master Society maintains and operates British Columbia’s sole remaining steam-powered, wooden hulled tugboat the SS MASTER. Our team of volunteers dedicate thousands of hours every year to keep the Master in a seaworthy condition.
The SS Master Society is a volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the 104-year-old Steam Tugboat the SS Master, a truly iconic maritime symbol of the B.C. towing industry. The S.S. Master’s future hangs in the balance, and we are asking for support of British Columbians to assist with funding for much-needed repair and restorations.
An article written by Robert Allan and David Bradford and published in the January 2025 issue of Western Mariner Magazine.
This steam powered tug is an amazing piece of maritime history … and she is 104 years old! The Master is truly unique and stands out in today’s world of steel hulled, diesel powered tugs.
Her power comes from a British Navy surplus Triple Expansion Steam engine built in 1916. The steam engine, boiler and ships steam systems are cradled in a massively strong double wood hull.
SS Master
Length Overall 85 ft
Beam 19.5 ft
Tonnage 225
Power Triple Expansion Steam Engine
Propeller 8′ – 9 pitch
Horse Power 330 hp
Normal Cruise 7 knots @ 100 rpm