Towboats

Towboats are specialized ships that push or pull barges along rivers, lakes, and inland waterways. They are designed to efficiently transport large quantities of goods like coal, oil, or containers. Equipped with powerful engines, towboats have a flat bow for pushing multiple barges bundled together as a connected unit called a tow. They navigate narrow, shallow channels and are essential for inland shipping, providing a cost-effective way to move bulk cargo over long distances. Their robust construction and maneuverability make them vital for commerce in regions where rail or truck transport may be less practical.