Having grown up on the Erie Canal (it was where all the crazy parties were held), I can confirm that they used tow lines to pull the boat and bow lines to dock it up to the side of the canal at scheduled stops, and at the locks. At the locks, they had to unhitch the mules to walk the incline while the boat was being lowered or raised. Who knew I had that bit of nautical knowledge in my brain?! Both the present day rides and the older pictures tell/show this. The things you don't know that you know...