These are relatively small flat bottomed vessels, generally used in Port waters to carry cargo and passengers.

Vessels other than ocean going vessels are generally referred to as sundry vessels/hulls. Many of the considerations that apply to ocean-going vessels also apply to coastal tonnage but in a limited manner as they do not have to worry about the high stress during heavy weather in open seas.

Coasters are generally smaller in size and many are engaged in the carriage of bulk cargoes. India has a long coast-line. So, coastal voyages are often of considerable length.

Generally a coastal ship designed to carry coal.

Dredger is a craft used to de-silt harbor basins and mouths, river and canal bottoms in order to open and deepen the channels and maintain sufficient draught so as to allow bigger vessels to enter harbor waters and make them navigable.

Fishing boats are small fishing crafts, mostly wooden built and operate in local coastal waters. They can be non-mechanised such as Vallams and Catamarans or may be mechanized ones of steel construction. In view of their smaller size and limited engine power, their operations are normally restricted to a distance of 20 NM from shore. Vallams and Cattamarans are not permitted to ply beyond 10 NM from shore.

A ship fitted with mechanized means of propulsion which is exclusively engaged in sea fishing for profit. Many of the modern day fishing vessels are built of steel and fiberglass (GRP) rapidly phasing out wood made vessels.

Launches/Boats are open or half decked utility boats, used to carry passenger tourists over short distances.

These are country crafts, fitted with sails, propelled by wind power. They were generally wooden built. Now-a-days, mechanized Sailing Vessels are steel built and are used to carry cargo between Indian Ports. They also ply to countries in close proximity such as Sri Lanka. Many also ply to Persian Gulf and some even to East African Ports. Sailing Vessels are invariably single-decked having one or two hatches and carry general cargoes.

Tugs are looked upon as the “maids of all work” for the merchant fleets and re expected to render services which are many and varied. The basic requirements for the Tugs are stability under all conditions of operation, maneuverability and adequate towing power. Tugs are equipped with sophisticated gadgets and provided with powerful engines.