There are many ways in which tugboats help with the daily operations in the maritime world, particularly in and around docks. Generally, though, these functions revolve around hooking on to and maneuvering large vessels. Here are some general tips on how to do just that:
Hook your tug to the vessel by anchoring anywhere from one to three lines in the rear of your tug to the front of the vessel. Run the line to the cleats of the boat you will be pulling and secure the knot. Be sure to leave enough room between your tugboat and the other ship to ensure that you won’t get run over as you pull on it.
Push your tugboat’s nose up against the area of the vessel that should be moved. Make sure to have buoys in between your boat and the other vessel so that you don’t directly push against each other. Such buoys or pads should be rated safe for tugboat maneuvering.
With the tugboat in the right place, start the engine. Then, increase the power slowly but steadily. Make sure that you calculate just how much the vessel should move and adjust your acceleration accordingly. Post watchers who can tell you when to stop as you push and reposition the larger vessel.
sanmartugboat 