A service boat is a small vessel mounted on a ship or used for various tasks on the water, such as transportation, beaching, deep-sea exploration, and engineering operations. It is propelled by oars, sails, or motor propulsion. The structure is typically open or semi-open with a partially covered bow, often featuring a square stern for improved stability. Generally, it cannot be used as a lifeboat, but smaller vessels may have internal buoyancy systems for this purpose.
Modern service boats include unmanned types, such as China's first unmanned auxiliary vessel tested in 2018, capable of operating in waves of force 7 to 9. Electric service boats are used for patrol and salvage missions.
