towage

Towage refers to the process of pulling or pushing a vessel, typically a ship or boat, by another vessel using a towing line. This is commonly done by tugboats, which are powerful, maneuverable boats designed to assist larger ships in navigating harbors, rivers, and narrow channels. Towage is essential for safely moving vessels that may be too large to steer effectively on their own due to size, wind, or current conditions. It also includes towing disabled boats to safety or facilitating the transport of barges and other cargo vessels.