Applications / Ship Manoeuvring

Direct thrust for berthing and unberthing.

Towbot brings directly commanded, reversible electric thrust to the hull itself — for berthing, unberthing, lock transits and confined-port operations, without a towline.

The Operating Case

Where Towbot replaces or supplements the tug.

Each application is assessed against the vessel, manoeuvre, port environment and existing tug or pilotage arrangement before a configuration is proposed.

Berthing & Unberthing

Controlled approach

Direct thrust command for lateral movement, heading control and speed management during berthing operations at terminals, quays and locks.

Lock Transits

Confined spaces

Controlled manoeuvring in locks, narrow channels and congested port areas where tug access is restricted or a towline creates operational risk.

Terminal Shifts

Routine repositioning

Short-distance shifts between berths or within a terminal basin, where a full tug engagement is disproportionate to the manoeuvre required.

Key Capabilities

Designed for port operations.

Towbot is designed for supervised remote operation. A designated human operator retains command authority at all times.

Direct Control

Towline-free

Thrust is applied directly at the hull without a towline, eliminating the handling risk associated with conventional tug operations in confined spaces.

Human in Command

Full authority

The designated operator controls thrust magnitude and direction from the control station. Override and emergency stop are available at all times.

Selected Tasks

Task substitution

Towbot can replace or supplement selected tug-assist tasks where the vessel, manoeuvre, operating environment and approval case support it.

Start with Your Vessel

Could Towbot support your port operations?

Share the vessel type, required manoeuvre and current tug arrangement. We will assess the right Towbot configuration for your port.

Request an Assessment