Monday 8 July 2013

Tough Tuggers: The Various Uses of Tugboats

Tugboats are those small boats helping larger crafts dock in harbors. Their diesel-powered machines are very robust, and can push or tug tons of weight without even a hint of mechanical stress. However, there's more to this unassuming but powerful vehicle than just acting as a valet for docking.

Due to their incredible engine power, tugboats are the perfect craft for salvaging or recovering disabled ships. Such force is also useful for firefighting applications, hence, there are tugboats fitted with deluge guns designed to put out the flames while the craft pushes away other boats to safety. Some have even used tugboats as icebreakers that can pave the way through ice-covered waters for other boats.

With so many applications possible for tugboats, it's nice to hear that they are used for recreational purposes as well. Tugboat racing is quite popular in America, and without a load, the vessels are rather quick to push or pull. Their ability to move in any direction also inspired a peculiar tugboat “ballet” in Hamburg, which features the crafts doing various synchronized maneuvers to music. Whatever they may be used for, people just love and respect their tugboats, which are far more than just for parking other water vessels.



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