The aft one is in about the position where garbage is tossed over the side of the ship but that isn't a garbage barge though or sure doesn't look like one LOL. The forward one looks like it is positioned at the port deck house for loading and unloading personnel. My guess is a contracted ferry ship too shore. The aft one might just be secured waiting for the other too move away. If so dumb idea in the M.E.
The carriers have or did have 7 utility boats capable of transporting 150 - 175 each boat plus two officers boats, the Captains Gig and the Admirals boat. IOW Bosuns and Snipes should be running the ships own boats into shore.
I blew the picture up for a closer look. Unless I'm wrong they are ferry boats {based on seeing boarding ramps} and the aft one looks like possibly the garbage barge is off to the side of it. I don't see contracted ship to shore rides as good policy in any port friend or foe.
I agree. Looks like ferry transports and unless they are specially assigned to the U.S. Navy it seems that bad security is still being practiced by the U.S. Navy.
They are contract ferries easier to get 4000 Sailors ashore without lines...
CVNs only have utility boats, gigs and barges.