ON-WATER PRACTICE
Towing Methods
There are four basic towing methods: E Single-line (bow-to-stern), including a pram variation. E Double-line (bow-to-stern). E Herringbone (V-pattern). E Side tow.
Single-Line Tow This is a good method for centerboard boats or
keelboats.The number of boats on the tow depends on the size and weight of the sailboats and the size, hull type and horsepower of the tow boat. However, a long line of boats reduces the maneuverability of a tow. A separate towline is needed for each boat.
Towlines should be fastened to a strong point (capable of taking the pulling load) on each sailboat, which is usually the mast. To reduce the load on the mast to just that of the boat itself (not the load of all the boats behind it), a double bowline should be used (see detail).
The boats can be occupied or empty, depending on the type of sailboat and how the towline is attached. For instance, Lasers that have their towlines led through the bow fair-leads to the masts can be towed with daggerboards removed and without anyone aboard. The last boat in the tow, however, should have someone aboard to control the tow. With 420s, which don’t have bow chocks or fairleads, someone should be in each boat to steer; their weight should be near the stern to raise the bow for better tracking.
The load on Boat A’s mast is only that of Boat A and not of any of the boats being towed behind it.
Boat B towline Boat A mast
Laser Towing For towing short distances with the mast stepped, release the boom vang and mainsheet so the sail can “flag” with the wind.
An emergency knot that can be released under load is two turns around the mast followed by two doubled (line is doubled) half-hitches. (A bowline cannot be released under load.)
Boat A towline
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