BASIC POWERBOATING. SAFETY & RESCUE FOR SAILING INSTRUCTORS 89 TOWING COMMUNICATION


It is important to make sure that everyone on the boats involved with towing know what is going on, what their specific role is, and how to communicate well.


While some boats may use VHF radios or cell phones for towing communications, the use of hand signals is quick and effective. Make sure those being towed are familiar with the hand signals.


Line Handling Terms


The use of basic line handling terms can improve communications and execution. Cast Off - Untie and release a line from the boat; do not bring it aboard. Ease - Let a line out until tension is eased, but does not hang slack. Hold - Do not let any line out, but be ready to act when directed. Make Fast - Secure a line. Slack - Release all tension on a line and let the line hang slack. Take In - A line is cast off from another boat and brought aboard your boat.


PICKING UP A TOW


It is generally advisable to receive a towline from the boat being towed. In this way, the towboat can quickly release, or cut the line if necessary, and the boat under tow keeps its towline. It is easier if the boat being picked up is stopped. If it is moving, it is most important to instruct the boat not to change its direction or speed. If a sailboat is involved, best control is when it is on a reach with the wind on its beam, or slightly forward, and the sails are luffing enough to slow the boat while maintaining its course.


1 Slowly approach the boat headed in the same direction.


WIND


3 When the towline is secured, gently remove any excess slack. If using the towboat’s towline, wait for a visual signal from the other boat that the towline is secured.


Come closer


Towline is tied


Let go of towline


Slow down


2 Receive a towline from the boat or pass over the towboat’s towline.


4 Once slack is removed, slowly increase to towing speed.


Table of Contents


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68  |  Page 69  |  Page 70  |  Page 71  |  Page 72  |  Page 73  |  Page 74  |  Page 75  |  Page 76  |  Page 77  |  Page 78  |  Page 79  |  Page 80  |  Page 81  |  Page 82  |  Page 83  |  Page 84  |  Page 85  |  Page 86  |  Page 87  |  Page 88  |  Page 89  |  Page 90  |  Page 91  |  Page 92  |  Page 93  |  Page 94  |  Page 95  |  Page 96  |  Page 97  |  Page 98