Rope Choker Share definition Flag A deckhand on a tug boat. The person on deck who handles the ropes, or lines, on a tug boat. Sometimes called a Deck Ape When starting out in the tugboat business, your first job is usually that of a rope choker. Rope Choker by Tugboat Bill January 24, 2015 0 0 Get merch Get the Rope Choker mug. Buy Now — $32.95 See more merch