Kedge

To move a vessel by hauling on a line attached to a small anchor dropped at a distance from the ship.

Kedging is a traditional technique used in maritime operations, particularly when a ship needs to be moved in shallow or restricted waters where using sails or engines is impractical or impossible. The process involves deploying a kedge anchor, which is typically smaller and lighter than the main anchor, at a distance from the vessel. Once the anchor is set, the crew hauls on the line attached to it, effectively pulling the vessel towards the anchor. This method can be repeated multiple times to move the ship over a longer distance. 

Kedge anchors are often used in situations where a ship has run aground or needs to be repositioned without the aid of wind or engine power. They are also useful in tidal waters, where a vessel may need to be held in a specific position or moved incrementally with the changing tide. The kedge anchor’s design typically features a stock and flukes, similar to larger anchors, but its smaller size makes it easier to handle and deploy quickly.

In modern times, kedging is less common due to the prevalence of powerful engines and advanced navigational aids, but it remains an important technique in certain situations, particularly for smaller vessels or in emergency scenarios where traditional propulsion methods are unavailable.