Towing & Ship-Assist · Emergencies — Use of a Drogue
A drogue streamed astern of a towed barge is used to:
- AIncrease the barge's speed
- BSteady the barge and reduce yawing/sheering, especially when running before a sea✓ Correct
- CReplace the towline entirely
- DLight the tow at night
Explanation
A drogue (sea anchor) trailed from the stern of the tow adds drag aft, damping the barge's tendency to yaw and overtake or surf in a following sea. It steadies the tow and reduces shock loading on the towline in heavy weather.
Authority: Towing seamanship references
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