Marine Plant Hire was founded to meet demand for reliable, flexible and professionally-supported marine plant charter across the UK and Europe. With access to an extensive fleet including workboats, tugs, hopper barges, pontoons, crane-barges and other specialist marine equipment, we provide a tailored solution for marine construction, dredging, harbour-maintenance, offshore support or other water-based projects.
Our pedigree stems from our sister company, TMS Maritime, a seasoned marine and civil engineering contractor with more than 31 years’ experience delivering complex projects such as jetties, quaysides, flood-defences, inland-waterway works and dredging across the UK and Europe.
By combining TMS Maritime’s deep engineering know-how, safety standards and project-delivery track record with our dedicated hire-fleet capabilities, Marine Plant Hire delivers dependable service, flexibility and value. Our clients benefit from a partner that understands the full spectrum of marine and civil-engineering needs, whether they require one-off vessel hire, turnkey support, or long-term plant deployment.
Meet the team.
Rich Eggleton
Rich Eggleton is the Managing Director of MPH, a Marine Pilot and Master Mariner with over two decades of experience in the maritime industry. Beginning his career at sea, Rich developed deep operational expertise before transitioning to senior leadership roles ashore. He now oversees marine operations and consultancy services, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency and compliance. In addition to his executive responsibilities, Rich actively pilots vessels at key UK ports and contributes to community safety initiatives as a volunteer helm for the RNLI. His career reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation and supporting the maritime sector through both strategic leadership and hands-on expertise.
Ben Wheatley
Ben Wheatley is Marine Superintendent at MPH. He has spent over 20 years at sea, initially as an AB, Rigger and Bosun before moving on to roles as OOW, Chief Mate and Master. Much of this time was spent in the Sail Training Sector. Time ashore has included work as Draught Surveyor and Marine Consultant alongside full-time roles as Operations Manager and Superintendent for other vessel operators.