Towage

Towage refers to the service of moving vessels by towing them with tugboats. It is essential in harbors for berthing and unberthing, lining up for entrance, and escorting ships through crowded or hazardous waters. Towage is also used for long-distance towing of ships or barges that cannot maneuver independently. The service is provided by licensed tug operators under contracts with shipowners, charterers, or port authorities, and charges are commonly called towage fees or rates.

Operations rely on specialized equipment and procedures. Towlines or hawsers, towing winches, and appropriate fenders are standard tools, with tugs attached to the vessel by lines secured to the bow or stern. Various towing arrangements may be employed, such as head tow or astern tow, chosen based on vessel size, weather, sea state, and the maneuver being performed. Towage work is coordinated with pilots, harbor control, and other traffic to ensure safe and efficient movements.

Towage has a long practical history and has evolved into a formalized professional service with established safety practices and standards. Modern towage emphasizes vessel and crew competency, reliable propulsion and handling, and risk management to reduce the potential for incidents. In addition to port operations, towage is also performed for salvage, offshore support, and other specialized marine tasks. Inland waterways employ similar services provided by towboats or push tugs to assist vessels in rivers, canals, and coastal routes.