Abstract: A thrust coupling connects the stern of a pushed vessel with the bow of a pushing vessel, allowing relative movement of the vessels about a vertical axis. A pair of elongated flexible ropes extend between the vessels, one on each side, and they each have one end portion connected to the pushed vessel and another end portion which is connected to one of a pair of coaxial winch drums that are rotatably mounted on the pushing vessel in the region of the stern of the latter. The end portion of one rope is convoluted about one of the drums in one direction and the end portion of the other rope is convoluted about the other drum in the opposite direction. A drive is provided which permits the drums to be jointly rotated, or individually rotated, at the option of a user.