Towing & Ship-Assist · Operations — Towline Length in Locks
When approaching a lock or a narrow bridge span with a tow on a hawser, the prudent action is to:
- ALengthen the towline for catenary
- BCast off the tow
- CShorten up the towline for positive control in the confined area✓ Correct
- DIncrease to full speed
Explanation
Catenary is desirable at sea but dangerous in confined waters. Shortening the towline (or making up close/pushing) gives immediate, positive control entering locks, bridges, and tight channels.
Authority: Inland towing practice; lockage procedures
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