A viral video has left social media users surprised (and oddly satisfied) after revealing the real reason tugboats sometimes spray massive plumes of water into the air.
The now widely shared clip, viewed over 50 million times across X and YouTube, shows a tugboat escorting a towering cargo ship while shooting water high into the sky. While the dramatic display might look like some sort of functional maneuver, its purpose is far more symbolic than practical.
Contrary to popular belief, the water jets aren't used for propulsion, cleaning, or even cooling. The real explanation? It’s called a “water salute”, a ceremonial gesture used by tugboats to mark a special occasion.
These salutes are typically performed to celebrate a ship’s maiden voyage, retirement, final departure from port, or a significant arrival. In some cases, they’re even used to honor notable individuals or vessels, and occasionally, organizers enhance the spectacle with colored water for extra flair.
The tradition is believed to have originated in the United States during the 1950s, where fireboats and tugboats would salute departing or returning military ships and aircraft, per CMSA.
For many online viewers, the revelation came as a surprise. “I never knew this was a thing,” one user wrote. “Finally, an answer that makes sense,” added another.
Tugboats, often overlooked in the maritime world, play a crucial role by helping larger vessels navigate ports, maneuver tight turns, or handle anchoring. They’re also sometimes used for firefighting, icebreaking, or salvage operations, but in this case, their waterworks are purely ceremonial.
As with any viral moment, the comment section delivered its fair share of comedic theories. One user joked: “It’s obviously a mating display. The smaller boat (male) is trying to woo the larger ship (female) by peacocking.”
Another chimed in: “They’re scaring away deep-sea monsters – Kraken, Devil Whale, Godzilla, that sort of thing.”
And perhaps the most delightfully absurd take: “You have to water the ocean so it grows.”
While tugboats might not usually be in the spotlight, their theatrical sprays are now getting the attention (and appreciation) they deserve.