🔍 Key Concepts

• Tug as a lever acting on the tow when pushing or pulling alongside • How the lead of the spring line affects the tug’s ability to control the tow’s heading and surge motion • Relationship between line lead, pivot point, and control of the vessel’s bow

💭 Think About

• Think about what happens to the large vessel’s movement if the tug’s spring is led from the bow vs. from near the tug’s stern—how does this change the turning effect? • Which line lead gives the tug the greatest ability to control the fore‑and‑aft motion (surging) and yaw (swinging of the bow) of the larger vessel? • Ask yourself which option directly improves the tug’s leverage and control over the tow, rather than just making the tug’s work more convenient.

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which choice is most directly related to control of the tow’s movement and heading, not just line handling convenience • Consider how moving the spring line’s attachment point forward changes the effective lever arm between tug and tow • Verify which option best matches standard tug practice for maximizing steering and braking control when made up alongside a larger vessel