Rust, the survival sandbox game, constantly evolves with new content and mechanics. One of the most exciting recent additions is the Tugboat, a powerful watercraft that can serve as a mobile base or a transportation vehicle.
In this guide, we’ll explore where to find Tugboats, how to acquire them, their advantages, and essential tips for using them effectively.
Tugboat Overview
The Tugboat is a durable and spacious boat in Rust, offering significant advantages over smaller watercraft. It provides ample storage, can be used as a floating base, and allows players to travel across the ocean efficiently.
Unlike simple rowboats or RHIBs, the Tugboat is a formidable presence on the water, making it highly sought after by players looking to establish dominance in aquatic territories.
Best Tugboat Spawn Locations in Rust
Tugboats spawn at specific locations across the Rust map. They can typically be found:
Since the Tugboat is a rare vehicle, players should scout these locations frequently to find an available one before others claim it.
How to Get a Tugboat
There are two primary ways to obtain a Tugboat in Rust:
Since Tugboats are in high demand, securing one early can give players a considerable advantage in exploring and controlling the waters.
Tugboat Features and Advantages
Here’s why you might want to get your hands on a Tugboat in Rust:
Tugboat Fuel Requirements
Like other watercraft in Rust, the Tugboat requires low-grade fuel to operate. Given its size, it consumes more fuel than a rowboat but offers better longevity and utility.
Always stockpile fuel before embarking on long journeys to avoid getting stranded in the open ocean.
Best Strategies for Using a Tugboat
Here are the best Tugboat strategies in Rust:
Tugboat Maintenance and Defense
When using a Tugboat in Rust, make sure to:
How to Steal or Buy a Tugboat in Rust
In Rust, tugboats are powerful, mobile bases found near harbors and oil rigs. Stealing a tugboat typically involves ambushing its current owner. Wait until they dock or leave it unattended, then kill the player and take control.
Make sure you have fuel and tools to maintain it. Set up a TC (Tool Cupboard) and doors quickly to claim ownership.
Alternatively, you can buy a tugboat from vendors on some custom or modded servers where boats are available for purchase at outposts or player-run shops.
Prices vary, usually requiring scrap or components. Once purchased, you can customize and defend it.
To keep a tugboat safe, build armored structures, install turrets, and secure the engine room. T
ugboats can travel long distances and serve as mobile raiding platforms or sea bases, making them highly valuable. Always scout the area and prepare defenses before attempting to steal or claim one.
Tugboat vs. RHIB in Rust: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Tugboat | RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large – can be used as a mobile base | Small – ideal for quick transport |
| Speed | Slower | Fast and nimble |
| Fuel Usage | High | Low to moderate |
| Defense | Can be fortified with turrets and doors | Exposed – no real defense |
| Storage Space | High – great for storing loot | Limited storage |
| Mobility | Clunky, harder to maneuver | Extremely maneuverable |
| Utility | Floating base, raid platform, group travel | Fast transport, hit-and-run tactics |
| Cost | Higher (rare or server-based purchase) | Lower (can be found or spawned easily) |
Summary
The Tugboat is a valuable addition to Rust’s ever-expanding sandbox experience. Whether used for transport, storage, or as a floating base, it provides numerous benefits for survival and domination. By securing one early, properly maintaining it, and using it strategically, players can maximize their effectiveness on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best method is to use 8 Time Explosive Charges.
Simply use WASD.
Yes, you can build on a Tugboat in Rust. Players can place a Tool Cupboard (TC), doors, walls, and deployables to turn it into a mobile base. It’s commonly used for sea raids or safe travel, but building space is limited, so planning and efficient layout are essential.
On some servers, especially modded ones, Tugboats can be purchased from NPC vendors located in Fishing Villages. The cost is typically set in scrap, though the exact amount can vary based on server configurations.
Yes, Tugboats do respawn in Rust, but only after the previous one has been destroyed or despawned. They typically reappear at coastal spawn points like harbors or fishing villages. The respawn time can vary depending on server settings, making Tugboats a rare and valuable asset in most games.
