ichidan verb, transitive verb
row to; row up to
Literal meaning: to row a boat to a destination such as a pier or shore. Often used in narrative contexts.
小舟で島の桟橋にこぎ着けた。
We rowed the small boat to the island's pier.
ichidan verb, transitive verb, intransitive verb
Figurative extension: to reach a goal, conclusion, or stage after persistent effort or difficulty. Often implies a sense of relief or accomplishment.
長い交渉の末、ようやく合意にこぎ着けた。
After long negotiations, we finally managed to reach an agreement.
彼は苦労してプロの選手の座にこぎ着けた。
He struggled and finally achieved a position as a professional player.