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.
- Towline-free — thrust applied directly at the hull
- Full 360° directional control with fast push-pull switching
- Operator commands magnitude and direction from control station
- Override and emergency stop available at all times
- Can replace or supplement selected tug-assist tasks
- No permanent vessel conversion required
Towbot can replace or supplement selected tug-assist tasks where the vessel, manoeuvre, operating environment and approval case support it. Each application is assessed individually before a configuration is proposed.
Directional thrust options
Towbot crew onboard
Permanent conversion needed
Human command authority
Operation sequence
Deploy. Attach. Manoeuvre. Recover.
A defined sequence with human authority at every step and a clear operating envelope for each manoeuvre.
Deploy
Launch from shore, a floating terminal or support vessel and establish authenticated communications with the control station.
Approach
Navigate to the selected hull location using cameras, sensors and assisted control, maintaining full situational awareness.
Attach
Secure the application-specific hull interface and verify holding condition before applying any manoeuvring thrust.
Control thrust
Command magnitude and direction from the designated control station. Override and emergency stop available at all times.
Recover
Release in a controlled manner, recover the unit, inspect, charge and prepare for the next duty cycle.
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.