Hercules (TUGS)

Hercules is a fictional character who appeared in the 1988 television series TUGS, created by the producers of Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends.

Hercules is Captain Star's largest vessel, an "ocean going" tugboat who is often used for large-scale operations and important contracts. During periods of bad weather he is out at sea answering distress calls, and is often sent to escort large vessels into port. He is often considered to be the fleet's leader, and is often placed in charge of large operations. Like the rest of the Star Fleet, Hercules is based on San Francisco tugs from the 1920's. He shares his name with one of the Greek mythological figure, Hercules, although he may have been named after one of several Royal Navy ships named HMS "Hercules". Another likely basis for his name comes from ocean going tugboat Hercules, a vessel with similar hull and superstructure from the San Francisco fleet of the 1920s.

Character-wise, Hercules is a cool-headed fighter. He speaks with a clear, soft tone English accent, but his words are often hard. He is held in high regard by most of the tugs in the harbour, including The Z-Stacks. Hercules is known to refer to his fellow Star Tugs as "ma' dears", and is recognised for his 'discreet' relationship with Lillie Lightship. He has a distinct 'lady's man' persona, and is seen by his fellow fleet as a father / older brother figure.

Like Big Mac, Hercules is fitted with a chime whistle, but one with a 'cleaner' sound and a two-tone signature. He makes various appearances in selected episodes across the series. He is not seen as often as the other Star Tugs, mainly because he is often away winning contracts or on errands at sea.