What Is a Cruise Ship Tender?

By Alice Nichols

A cruise ship tender is a type of passenger vessel used to transport people between shore-side ports and larger vessels like cruise ships and ferries. Tenders are used in place of dockage at ports where there is not enough space or the necessary infrastructure to accommodate a large cruise ship or ferry.

They are also used when a larger vessel cannot get close enough to the shore due to unfavorable weather or other conditions. Cruise ship tenders are typically smaller, faster vessels that offer transportation between the large vessel and the port.

Tenders are usually built out of aluminum or fiberglass and come in various sizes. For example, a typical tender might be 40 feet long and hold up to 50 passengers, while others can be as long as 100 feet and carry several hundred passengers. The majority of tenders feature an open deck with seating for passengers, although some may also have enclosed areas for VIPs or those requiring special assistance.

Tenders can be powered by diesel engine, gasoline engine, electric propulsion, or even solar power. Most tenders also feature a bow thruster for maneuvering in tight spaces, as well as navigation systems such as GPS and AIS receivers.

Many also have VHF radios for communication with the mothership. Some even have amenities such as air conditioning and onboard toilets for passenger comfort while they make the journey from ship to shore.

Tender boats are essential components of any large-scale ocean voyage where docking is not possible or impractical due to weather or sea conditions. Without them, passengers would be unable to disembark at ports of call during their cruise itinerary, effectively limiting their experience on board the main vessel.

In addition to providing transportation between ships and ports, tenders can also be used for sightseeing excursions around the local area, marine research activities such as whale watching, water skiing adventures and much more – giving passengers an opportunity to explore beyond their cruise itinerary’s schedule without having to leave the comfort of their main vessel’s accommodations.

In conclusion, a cruise ship tender is an essential component of any voyage where docking is not possible due to weather or sea conditions – allowing travelers to disembark at ports of call during their cruise itinerary while providing an additional platform for sightseeing excursions around the local area or other activities that may not fit within the cruise’s schedule.