Towing & Ship-Assist · Interaction — Meeting in a Channel
When two large tows meet and pass close aboard in a narrow channel, interaction effects can cause:
- ABow cushion and stern suction that sheer the vessels toward or away from each other✓ Correct
- BAn increase in available depth
- CNo effect if both keep full speed
- DThe towlines to become slack permanently
Explanation
Pressure fields around passing hulls interact: a bow cushion pushes bows apart while stern suction draws sterns together, producing sheer. Reducing speed and allowing adequate separation lessens the forces; excessive speed in a confined channel makes interaction dangerous.
Authority: Ship-handling / interaction references
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