🔍 Key Concepts

• Towing operations vocabulary – know the specific names for different small lines used to pass heavier gear • Heaving vs. messenger vs. shot line – how each is normally used aboard ships and tugs • How the tow bridle and towing wire are actually brought aboard a tug in stages

💭 Think About

• Think about which type of line is commonly used to first send a small, light line across, so that progressively heavier lines can be passed afterward • Consider what you would practically use on a tug to safely pull the end of a heavy tow bridle up to the main connection point • Ask yourself which term is most associated with general ship-to-ship communication (such as passing mail or light items) versus heavy towing gear

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which item is specifically defined or commonly described as a small, easily thrown line used to pull over a heavier line or wire • Eliminate any option that is usually associated with hoisting loads vertically rather than pulling a line horizontally • Check seamanship texts or towing references for how the bridle end is brought aboard and what that first light line is called