A launch is a heavy, open working boat carried aboard a larger ship. Historically rowed or sailed, and later motor-driven, it serves as the primary workhorse for moving heavy stores, ferrying large numbers of crew, or laying out anchors. On naval vessels, it is traditionally the captain's designated boat and the most seaworthy of the ship's embarked craft.
Heard on the job
Lower the motor launch and have the deck gang load the replacement generator into it.
Also heard as
- captain's boat