🔍 Key Concepts

• Towing dynamics in a seaway – how waves affect tension on the towline • Shock loading vs steady loading on a towing hawser or wire • Effect of relative motion between tug and tow (one on crest, one in trough)

💭 Think About

• Picture the towline when one vessel is on a wave crest and the other is in a trough – what happens to the line’s tension and length? • Which option directly connects to forces in the towline, rather than visibility, shape of the catenary, or speed? • In rough seas, what is the main concern for preserving the integrity of the towing gear and avoiding gear failure?

✅ Before You Answer

• Focus on the choice that deals with forces on the towline rather than convenience or visibility. • Ask: which factor, if not controlled, is most likely to damage or part the towing gear in heavy seas? • Eliminate any answers that don’t clearly relate to tension and load changes in the towing connection.