Towing & Ship-Assist · Stability
A towing vessel's stability is most critically threatened by a high, transverse towline lead because it:
- AIncreases fuel burn
- BCreates a heeling moment that, combined with girting, can capsize the tug✓ Correct
- CImproves the turning circle
- DLowers the center of gravity
Explanation
A towline leading high and athwartships creates a large transverse heeling moment. If the tug cannot swing to relieve it (girting), the heeling moment can exceed the righting moment and capsize the tug. Keeping the towing point low (gog wire/towing bitt) and the lead controlled mitigates this.
Authority: Towing stability; girting
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