A single tug boat will patrol Scottish waters under new UK Government plans.
Scottish Secretary Michael Moore has announced that funding is secure for the emergency towing vessel up to 2015.
It follows a decision in 2010 to stop funding two boats which sparked a campaign urging the Government to think again.
In a written statement at Westminster, Mr Moore said: "As a government, we have listened closely to all the views which have been put forward in this process. We have worked hard within the UK Government with the Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to find the best solution to maintain emergency towing vessel cover within the financial constraints we face.
"Today's announcement show we have found a practical and sensible way forward with a replacement which balances risk and efficiency. I am grateful to the local authorities, harbour masters and others who have taken part in the process leading up to today's announcement.
"The oil industry has also been active in helping explore the potential of a commercial call-out arrangement using their vessels and discussions are still under way."
The tendering process for the new contract has now been launched and further funding for a temporary contract during the bidding period will be provided if necessary, Mr Moore said.
The vessel will not however be used for "passive" escorts through the Minch, which separates the Western Isles and the mainland, ensuring the boat can cover the whole country but the Coastguard will be able to request escort duties if necessary.
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