How Do Cruise Ship Tenders Work?

By Alice Nichols

Cruise ship tenders are small boats used by larger cruise ships to transport passengers to and from shore. They offer an efficient and safe way for passengers to disembark the ship in port and return back, while the large vessel remains anchored in deeper waters.

Tenders are usually operated by a smaller crew than the main ship, with one or two people managing the boat. They are usually equipped with basic amenities such as a bar or snack area and some shade, allowing passengers to enjoy the journey.

The main purpose of tenders is to provide a safe and comfortable way for passengers to get on and off the boat quickly. This is especially important when there are large numbers of people disembarking or embarking at any given time, as tenders can reduce congestion on the main decks.

How Do Cruise Ship Tenders Work?

When a cruise ship approaches a port, it will typically stay at least several miles away from the shore due to its size and depth requirements. The tender boat is then deployed from either the side or the rear of the ship, depending on its size. The tender will then make its way towards land while carrying anywhere from 20-100 passengers at a time.

Once at shore, passengers can disembark safely onto land via gangways connected between the tender and shoreline. Passengers returning back to their cruise ship will board their respective tender which will then transport them back safely.

Conclusion:
Cruise ship tenders provide an efficient and safe way for passengers to disembark and embark their cruise ships in port while allowing them to enjoy their journey in comfort. They reduce congestion on main decks during busy times, making them an invaluable part of any cruise experience.