Why Do Tugboats Have Tires On Them? Here's What They're For

Tugboats make up some of the hardest workers on the water. From guiding massive ships through narrow harbors, towing barges through busy channels, even pushing vessels against ocean currents, they're like a fleet of boat-sized superheroes. But what's with all the old, worn-out truck tires strapped to the sides of tugboats? Sure, their heavy-duty engines and reinforced hulls are easy to explain, but this one common feature is a lot more confusing.

As it turns out, these tires are far from just a quirky design choice. They're actually a vital part of a tugboat's complex fendering system. They serve critical roles in safety, durability, and performance. Tugboats work in some of the toughest marine environments, constantly colliding (intentionally) with other vessels during mooring, towing, and pushing operations. This routine contact (especially with larger oceangoing ships) creates powerful forces of impact that would quickly wear down a tugboat's hull without the right protection.

This is where fendering systems come in. At their core, these systems are designed to absorb and distribute impact energy. This prevents damage to both the tug and the vessel it's working with. Tires are one of the most accessible and flexible fendering solutions available, and their round shape, thick rubber makeup, and ability to compress and deform under pressure make them perfect for absorbing shocks.

Because tires can conform around curves, they're able to spread contact forces over a wider area. This reduces the chance of either vessel sustaining damage during contact and also offers a forgiving surface for tugboat operators to work against. While some tugboats use more advanced fendering systems made from molded or laminated rubber, tires are a surprisingly effective and sustainable alternative.

Aircraft tires are the tire of choice for a decent portion of tugboat operators. Unlike conventional truck tires, which are primarily built for vertical loads, aircraft tires are designed to resist compression from multiple angles, making them better suited for side impact protection on workboats.

Of course, tugboat fendering isn't a one-size-fits-all thing. The size and number of tires on a tugboat will vary depending on the tug's mission, location, and type of vessel contact. You might also see a tugboat with a laminated fender, made from recycled semi-truck tires compressed into solid blocks that are then shaped and mounted directly to the hull. These types of fenders come in different configurations (such as double-loop, rectangular, or bow-mounted styles) and are tailor-made to the tugboat's specific needs. Some tug operators prefer a combination of solutions, using tires along certain areas of the hull and more rigid, molded rubber in others.

Beyond protecting the hull, the fendering system on a tugboat directly impacts its longevity and maintenance costs. Without proper fendering, repeated collisions could shorten a tugboat's service life or require expensive repairs. A well-designed fender can provide years of reliable service before needing replacement. And, when those tires do need to be swapped out, they're far easier and cheaper to replace than some high-end molded rubber options. Unlike rigid fenders that might need extensive welding or shaping, tires can be quickly mounted or swapped out, even while out on the water. It's no wonder why these strong tugboats use them.