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21.06.2021 17:54:58
Re: Towing a Tender Behind a Powerboat
See full version: Towing a Tender Behind a Powerboat
Re: Towing a Tender Behind a Powerboat
The larger boat is a small sportfisher. I cruise at no more than 16 knots. Concerns are. how far behind the boat should it be towed? Effect of bad weather?? In the pacific we get some big swell.
Re: Towing a Tender Behind a Powerboat here
Re: Towing a Tender Behind a Powerboat
When they come into the marina they are stopping at (or fuel dock, etc.) they stop the big boat, and "reel" in the towed boat, until a crew member can hop in it, then crank up the outboards. Then the line is cast off and each boat motors in on it's own. more
There are many variables that dictate how far behind your boat your want the towed boat. Generally, two swell lengths is a good starting point. You want to keep the towed boat "in step" with your boat to prevent shock loading your tow line which is hard on the line and both boats. So, when towing offshore, both boats should be on the peak of the swell or in the trough of a swell at the same time with the towed boat 2 swells behind you. In the Pacific that's going to be about 400 to 600 feet of line. In the Atlantic, about half that. more
Sometimes, it may be necessary to tow your mother boat with your tender. Whether it’s because of a mechanical failure or you need to use your dinghy to move your larger boat, it’s a good idea to know how. [links]
To tie a bowline, hold a section of line in your hand with the free end hanging down and away from you. Bring a portion of the hanging line on top of the line in your hand so it forms a shape like the number 6. Then, take the free end of the 6 and bring it up through the loop you created. Take the line around the back of the 6, then back down through the loop. here
Towing a boat astern is the best method for rougher conditions and long tows. Contrary to what some might think, this method requires the most skill and attention — it can be hazardous if not done correctly.
A safe tow is all about planning ahead. Think about what could go wrong and test everything before you put it into action. Establish signals with your helmsman before you begin your tow, as communication won’t be as easy after you get underway — a handheld radio is also a good idea.
Pushing from astern works well for most types of boats, but some sailboats with a reverse or scoop transom may be difficult to control.
Tow at full plane, pivot, back up, and even emergency stop. here
With minimal drag or weight added, install on any boat with a swim platform.
Light-weight and easy to do yourself. more
Quick release buttons and a simple connection makes the decision 'to tow or not to tow' a breeze.
I have now taken the Magic Marine Tow out on Georgian Bay for some real-world testing. I got into some rough weather and cruised through 3 to 5-foot chop and 10 plus foot rollers through O'Donnell point and had it on plane elsewhere when waters were flat. The Magic Marine Tow worked exactly as planned and kept my Sea-Doo safely behind me. After the initial learning curve, I found it easy to attach and hook up my Sea-Doo. [links]
Once you have reached sheltered water, slow down and shorten the tow. At this stage you may want to ask the marina launch or harbour master to take over as their boat may be better suited to the task. more
So far we have only considered towing when the crew of the towed vessel are capable of assisting. here
At night tugs have distinctive lights to minimise the danger of vessels crossing the towline. If the tow is under 200m the towing vessel should show two masthead lights in a vertical line. There should therefore be an extra light with the same arc of visibility as the usual one used for night motoring. more
Towing under sail is best reaching or downwind. Upwind you may find you have significantly increased leeway here