Towing & Ship-Assist · Interaction

'Bank effect' on a tow transiting close to one side of a narrow channel tends to:

Explanation

Near a bank, a cushion of higher pressure builds at the bow (sheering it away from the bank) while suction draws the stern toward the bank — the combination yaws the vessel. Helmsmen counter with helm and by keeping toward mid-channel where practical.

Authority: Shiphandling; bank effect / cushion and suction

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