This is mental.

It looks completely daft!

See here for more about this unusual design:http://www.professionalmariner.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=420C4D38DC9C4E3A903315CDDC65AD72&nm=Archives&type=Publishing&mod=Publications%3A%3AArticle&mid=8F3A7027421841978F18BE895F87F791&tier=4&id=15338E4F45C74B90B8484BB6BEC4FEF6

The This Ship link led me to this example of what David Boone said http://www.shipspotting.com/gallery/photo.php?lid=1559247

The tug was designed to handle the biggest barges in service today, with a high vantage point for the tug crew to see without obstruction. The tug can push or pull, as she is also equipped with a stern towing winch. There is no elevator, I suppose the crew would be very fit with all the ladders to climb.

What a nice tug! I like it

Looks like the leaning "tower" of Pisa

Who would have thought it, a high-rise tug, only the Americans, eh!!!!!!!!

I like it.

I have to say.. I love these tugs :)
Im not an expert but its obviously a barge pusher, so the height of the bridge would afford good visibility over the barge being pushed?

Looks like a floating pagoda. I wouldnt like to be on her in a severe gale, she looks top heavy.And what is the strange design of her bridge for?

What an ugly tug!