🔍 Key Concepts

• Pivot point of a tug and tow when alongside • Effect of towing vessel’s stern and propeller wash on the towed vessel • How positioning affects turning ability and control when going ahead

💭 Think About

• Think about where the towing vessel actually pivots when moving ahead and how that helps swing the tow. • Consider whether you want the tow’s stern to be behind, even with, or slightly ahead of the tug’s stern to get the best leverage in a turn. • Ask yourself: which position lets the tug’s propeller thrust and rudder flow act most effectively on the tow?

✅ Before You Answer

• Visualize a plan view of the two hulls alongside and mark the tug’s pivot point when moving ahead. • Check which option places the tow’s stern closest to that pivot point for better steering control. • Eliminate any choice that would leave the tow too far aft, where it would mainly be dragged rather than help the tug turn.