Abstract: A method of and apparatus for connecting two vessels, such as a tugboat and a barge, to form a composite vessel, are disclosed. The method uses hydraulically powered apparatus completely controlled from one of the vessels to extend a shaft from one vessel toward the other vessel which has apparatus to capture the extended shaft. The method accommodates substantial misalignment between the vessels being connected by permitting lateral adjustment during connection. The apparatus for effecting the connection includes an active member carried by one of the vessels and a passive member carried by the other of the vessels. The active member is hydraulically actuated, includes a longitudinally reciprocable shaft which is actuated by a powered toggle linkage, and includes a release mechanism. The passive member is carried by the other of the vessels and automatically engages the shaft of the active member.