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Why do Tugboats spray water while towing and docking ships?

Tugboats spraying water as the Costa Concordia cruise ship is refloated.
Tugboats spays water in farewell to the cruise liner Costa Concordia during the refloat operation maneuvers at Giglio Island July 23, 2014. Maneuvers began early on Wednesday to remove the rusty hulk of the Costa Concordia cruise liner from the Italian island where it struck rocks and capsized two years ago, killing 32 people. A convoy of 14 vessels, led by the tug boat Blizzard, will start to tow the Concordia later on Wednesday to a port near Genoa in northern Italy where it is due to arrive on Sunday, before being broken up for scrap. REUTERS/ Alessandro Bianchi ( ITALY – Tags: DISASTER TRANSPORT MARITIME SOCIETY)
Reuters

TUGBOATS play an essential role at sea and can be recognised by their distinctive water spraying. 

They are designed to help larger ships in navigating harbours and rivers and are equipped with strong engines to help with the job.

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Tugboat Biter returning to its base in Victoria Harbour, Greenock
Tugboats are small but very powerful
Kenny ramsay – The Sun

Tugboats are essential for towing ships, helping them manoeuvre safely during docking and undocking.

They play a ley role in maintaining safety at sea, especially for massive cargo ships, tankers, and cruise liners.  

Tugboats are also used in rescue operations and to respond to emergencies, such as ship fires or mechanical failures.  

Why do tugboats spray water while towing and docking ships?

Tugboats are often equipped with water cannons, which are primarily used as firefighting equipment.  

While towing or docking ships, these cannons may be activated to spray water as a precautionary measure.  

Spraying water can help to cool down the tugboat’s engines, which may become overheated during intense operations.  

Additionally, the water spray can reduce the risk of sparks or fires on the tugboat or nearby vessels caused by heat or friction.  

In some cases, water spraying can also be used to clean the deck or prevent salt build-up during operations.  

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Container ship APL Vanda being assisted by tugboats
Tugboats help big tankers navigate harbours
AP: Associated Press

Are there non-practical reasons for tugboats spraying water?

Yes, tugboats also spray water for celebratory and ceremonial purposes.  

During a ship’s arrival or departure, water sprays can create a festive atmosphere and serve as a traditional maritime salute.  

Tugboats may also spray water to mark special occasions, such as the launch of a new ship or the retirement of an old one.  

Water displays also celebrate broader events, such as national holidays or cultural festivals.  

For example, tugboats have been known to spray water in rainbow patterns during Pride celebrations. 

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