What Are the Small Boats on a Cruise Ship Called?

By Michael Ferguson

Small boats on a cruise ship are typically referred to as tenders. These vessels are used to ferry passengers from the mothership to shore or other nearby locations. They are usually equipped with powerful outboard motors and/or inboard diesel engines, as well as a variety of navigation and safety equipment.

Tenders typically have a shallow draft, which allows them to navigate through shallow waters and access shorelines that are inaccessible by larger ships. This makes them ideal for reaching small, secluded islands and beaches where passengers can disembark for sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, fishing and other activities.

Tenders come in a variety of sizes depending on the type of cruise ship they are attached to. Smaller vessels may be used for day trips while larger tenders can fit up to 60 passengers at once. Some tenders even feature upper deck lounges where passengers can relax while they wait for their turn on board the main vessel.

In addition to being used as passenger ferries, tenders may also be equipped with cargo-carrying capabilities which allow them to transport goods between ships and ports. By doing so, they help cruise liners save time and money when it comes to delivering supplies or picking up new ones from port cities.

When not in use for passenger transport or cargo runs, tenders may also be used by crew members for maintenance tasks like painting the hull of the mothership or conducting repairs on its deckhouse structures. This helps keep the ship in top condition while ensuring the safety of its passengers and crew members alike.

Overall, tenders play a key role in allowing cruise ships to access remote locations that would otherwise be inaccessible by larger vessels. These small boats make it possible for travelers to experience some of the world’s most beautiful destinations without having to leave the comforts of their floating home away from home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tenders are an essential part of any cruise ship’s operations as they provide an important means of transportation between shorelines and other nearby locations that would otherwise be inaccessible with larger vessels. By offering both passenger-carrying capabilities and cargo-hauling capabilities, these small boats give cruise liners an invaluable resource when it comes to getting passengers where they need to go safely and efficiently.