GTA Online
Buckingham Tug GTA Online
GTA Online Wiki Team · Updated:
The Buckingham Tug is a Boats vehicle in GTA Online, available from DockTease for $1,250,000, known for its versatility and value.
Reliable option suitable for most players.
The Buckingham Tug costs $1,250,000. It achieves a top speed with a top speed of 30 mph (48.3 km/h). Solid all-rounder suitable for most players. According to community testing methodology by Broughy1322.
| Price | $1,250,000 |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 30 mph (48.3 km/h) |
| Manufacturer | Buckingham |
| Category | Boats |
"A large tugboat perfect for cruising or piracy."
Editor's Verdict
Is the Buckingham Tug Worth Buying in 2026?
Editor's Take
The Buckingham Tug is a niche purchase at $1,250,000. For similar money, the Kraken ($1,325,000) provides more practical value in most gameplay scenarios. Buy it for the collection factor or personal preference, not competitive advantage.
The Buckingham Tug offers reliable functionality at its price point in the boats category.
Best Uses for the Buckingham Tug
Enjoyable to drive around Los Santos in freemode.
Not Recommended
Too slow for competitive racing.
No weapons or defensive tech — vulnerable in combat.
For Grinders
The Tug serves its purpose but isn't specifically optimized for grinding. Focus on income-generating assets first if you're still building your empire—businesses and passive income sources should take priority over utility purchases until you're earning $1M+ per play session.
For Beginners
Consider this a mid-game purchase. Beginners should focus on establishing income first, but the Tug makes a good goal to work toward. The learning curve is moderate, so expect a few hours of practice before you can exploit its full potential in missions and freemode activities.
For Racers
The Tug serves a utility role outside of racing. For competitive speed, invest in dedicated watercraft instead.
For PvP Players
The Tug has limited direct PvP applications. For dedicated freemode combat, invest in weaponized vehicles or Imani Tech upgrades instead.
For Collectors
Worth owning for collection completeness, though the Tug isn't particularly rare or prestigious among dedicated collectors. Nice to have in a themed garage, but not a priority purchase unless you're specifically building a boats showcase collection.
Bottom line: Buy it for the collection factor or personal preference, not competitive advantage.
How Fast Is the Buckingham Tug?
- Top Speed:30 mph (48.3 km/h)
- Lap Time:Not yet confirmed (Broughy1322 testing)
Handling Tips
- The Tug handles differently at speed—wide turns at full throttle prevent capsizing. Cut throttle before sharp direction changes to maintain control on the water.
- Use the Tug's wake to your advantage in pursuits. Sharp turns create waves that can destabilize pursuing boats, giving you a tactical edge in chases.
When NOT to Buy
- Don't buy for competitive racing. The Tug will lose to faster vehicles in its class.
- Don't impulse buy at full price. GTA Online has frequent sales - patience can save 30-40%.
The 30 mph figure above reflects fully upgraded standard configuration.
How It Compares
The Buckingham Tug sits at the top of the Boats tier; here is how it stacks up against its true rivals.
| Vehicle | Price | Top Speed | Rank | Class | HSW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckingham Tug | $1,250,000 | 30.0 mph/ 48.3 km/h | — | — | No |
| Shitzu Police Predator | $3,900,000 | 95.0 mph/ 152.9 km/h | — | Utility | No |
| Kraken | $1,325,000 | — | — | — | No |
| Nagasaki Longfin | FREE | 85.0 mph/ 136.8 km/h | — | — | No |
| Lampadati Toro | $1,650,000 | 82.0 mph/ 132 km/h | — | — | No |
Shitzu Police Predator
The Police Predator is a weaponized patrol boat added in Agents of Sabotage. Initially free during the launch event, now available from Warstock.
Kraken
The Kraken is a personal submarine allowing underwater exploration of GTA Online's ocean. Originally a returning player bonus, it's now free for all players from DockTease. Essential for underwater collectibles and exploration.
Nagasaki Longfin
A fast patrol boat used in the Cayo Perico Heist.
Lampadati Toro
A luxury yacht tender with impressive speed.
How Do You Upgrade the Buckingham Tug?
The Buckingham Tug can be customized at Los Santos Customs for visual modifications including paint, wheels, and window tints. Performance upgrades such as engine, transmission, brakes, and turbo are available and significantly improve vehicle performance. Full modification typically costs $150,000-$300,000 depending on upgrade levels selected. Based on community testing, the turbo and engine upgrades provide the most noticeable performance gains per dollar spent, so prioritize those before cosmetic modifications.
Modifications Available
- Engine
- Brakes
- Transmission
- Suspension
- Armor
- Respray
- Wheels
- Liveries
Recommended Order
- 1Engine Level 4 — The single biggest performance improvement for the Tug. Prioritize this over cosmetic mods.
- 2Turbo — Sharpens the Tug's throttle response and adds noticeable acceleration, especially from low speeds.
- 3Armor + Bulletproof Tires — Protect your mid-range investment in the Tug. Essential for freemode survival.
Special Features
- Personal watercraft storage at owned marinas and docks.
- Access to boat-specific races and time trials.
Can You Get the Buckingham Tug for Free?
As of 2026, no confirmed permanent free unlock method has been documented for the Buckingham Tug. The methods below are community observations and time-limited opportunities, not guaranteed acquisition paths.
- 1Boats often spawn at marinas around Los Santos - check the docks near Vespucci Beach and the Alamo Sea.
- 2Some boat-based missions allow you to keep the vehicle if you store it in a personal dock.
Where to Find
Purchase from: ⛵ DockTease(docktease.com)
- Purchase from DockTease (docktease.com) – the exclusive boat dealer in GTA Online.
- Some boats spawn at marinas around Los Santos for temporary use—check Puerto Del Sol Marina and Paleto Bay docks.
The Buckingham Tug sells back for $750,000 at Los Santos Customs.
Event & Discount History
- Historically discounted during weekly event weeks — Rockstar typically rotates boats discounts every 4-6 weeks with savings of 30-40%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Buckingham Tug cost in GTA Online?
The Buckingham Tug costs $1,250,000 in GTA Online.
What is the top speed of the Buckingham Tug?
The Buckingham Tug has a tested top speed of 30 mph (48.3 km/h) based on community testing data.
Is the Buckingham Tug worth buying?
Yes. The Buckingham Tug offers solid performance for its price of $1,250,000. Prioritize essential business properties before luxury purchases.
Can I get the Buckingham Tug for free?
As of 2026, no confirmed permanent free unlock method exists for the Buckingham Tug. It has appeared during weekly GTA Online events, Lucky Wheel spins at the Diamond Casino, and as a Prize Ride at the LS Car Meet. Check Rockstar's Newswire for current promotions.
What is the sell price of the Buckingham Tug?
The Buckingham Tug sells for $750,000 at Los Santos Customs, which is 60% of the original purchase price. Upgrade investments are only partially recovered when selling.