In France, Boatage companies are grouped in a trade union, the SPLMNA (Boatage Professional Association of the English Channel, North Sea and Atlantic ports).

Exchanges are permanent and shared experiences for the development of different structures. Approximately 300 boatmen plying their trade across the Atlantic coast to the North Sea.

The mooring is an activity that requires control and precision. The evolution with the launchs from the ship, tugs and dock can be dangerous depending on water and weather conditions encountered.
A maneuvering error could be detrimental to stakeholders as the ship when a hawser had to engage in its propeller