Tugiplaani

Tugiplaani is an Estonian maritime planning term referring to a plan that coordinates tugboat assistance for ships entering, docking, or leaving a port. It is typically part of a port's vessel traffic management framework and is used to ensure safe and efficient ship handling in constrained waters.

A tugiplaani typically specifies which tugs are assigned to a vessel, the required bollard pull, towing arrangements, towlines and fenders, tug positions during approach and maneuvering, target speeds, and the intended route and communications plan. It also includes contingency measures for adverse weather, tug failure, or other emergencies, as well as contact details for the pilot, ship master, and harbor control.

Preparation is usually the responsibility of the port authority in coordination with the ship's agent, pilot, and master. Plans are prepared for each inbound or outbound vessel based on vessel characteristics such as size, draft, propulsion, berthing requirements, and local conditions. Tug plans may be adjusted in real time as conditions change.

Tugiplaani is closely related to other harbor processes such as pilotage, vessel traffic services, and the port's safety and emergency response plans. While the term is Estonian, similar tug-assistance plans are used worldwide under different names and templates.

Terminology: Tugiplaan (the base word) and its genitive form tugiplaani appear in Estonian maritime texts. The concept is standard in modern port operations, although templates and terminology vary by country and port.