Towing & Ship-Assist · Maneuvering
When a tug towing astern must back down hard, the chief danger is that the tow may:
- ASpeed up
- BOverrun the tug, causing the slack towline to foul the propeller or the tow to collide with the tug✓ Correct
- CBecome lighter
- DSteer better
Explanation
Backing hard takes the tug's way off faster than the tow's, so the tow surges forward, slacking the hawser — which can foul the wheel or let the tow run up on the tug. Backing must be done cautiously, often after shortening up or shifting the tow alongside.
Authority: Shiphandling; towing astern
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