1. the act of transporting people by boat, especially in large numbers during an emergency or crisis
Usage: often refers to organized evacuation or mass migration by sea; historically associated with the 1980 Mariel boatlift from Cuba to Florida

Examples

• The boatlifting operation rescued thousands of refugees from the coastal region.
• During the crisis, boatlifting became the primary means of escape for families seeking safety.
• The government coordinated a massive boatlifting effort to evacuate residents from the flooded areas.
• Historical records document the boatlifting as one of the largest maritime migrations in modern times.
• Volunteers participated in the boatlifting to help transport stranded citizens to safety.