Towboat Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
Towboat pushing barges through the ice on the upper Mississippi above Alton IL
A towboat is a boat designed for pushing barges. Towboats are characterized by a square bow with steel knees for pushing and powerful engines. They are most often seen on inland waterways where they can push up to fifteen large barges lashed together into a tow. Towboats that travel long distances include living quarters for the crew.
Not to be confused with the historic boat type with the same name, also called horse-drawn boat.