Rhino ferry

A rhino ferry is a barge constructed from several pontoons which are connected and equipped with outboard engines, used to transport heavy equipment and people.

Rhino ferries were used extensively during the Normandy landings[1] and other theaters (Attu, Africa, Sicily, Italy); their low draft was well-suited for shallow beaches, and they could also be used as piers when filled with water.

[2] An alternative to tank landing craft, they were operated by United States Navy Construction Battalions.

[3] They ferried their cargo from the outlying Landing Ships, Tank to the shore.

Rhinos (and causeways, which used the same components) were also assembled by British Army Royal Engineers.