Tugboat

A tugboat is a key auxiliary vessel in international trade maritime operations, mainly used to assist large ships in entering and leaving ports, berthing and unberthing, towing in narrow waterways or canals, and performing maritime rescue, towing barges or offshore platforms. It is characterized by a small hull, high power, and flexible maneuverability. In foreign trade, tugboat services are usually provided by port authorities or professional tug companies, and the fee (tugboat fee) is often part of port disbursements, borne by the shipowner or charterer according to charter party terms (such as FIOST, liner terms). Usage scenarios include: tugboats pushing or pulling to adjust the ship's position during berthing; in compulsory pilotage areas such as the Suez Canal and Panama Canal, tugboats assist in convoy navigation. Notes: Tugboat fees may vary by port, ship tonnage, and operating time (surcharges for night, holidays). If a foreign trade contract or letter of credit involves the allocation of port charges, it must be clear who bears the tugboat fee. Unlike a 'Pilot', a tugboat provides power assistance, while a pilot provides navigational guidance; unlike a 'Barge', a tugboat is mainly used for towing rather than carrying cargo.