Towing Guidelines After the initial size up, if it is safe, towing abreast allows for the most control for the towing vessel. Coming alongside and capturing the towed vessel with breast lines is the first step.

Tie towing lines to the towed vessel using afterspring lines from the forward quarter bitt. Tie a braking line to the towed vessel using forwardspring lines from the after quarter bitt.

Tie a bow breast line to keep the vessels at the desired distance apart. Tie a stern breast line to keep the after portions of the vessels at the desired distance.

Towing Astern Towing astern is an option when sea conditions would make mating the two vessels difficult. Upon entering the harbor and calmer water, towing side by side would allow for more control.

From the tow bitt proceed forward to the aft capstan and take some wraps. After wrapping the capstan, run the line to the port quarter bitt.

If a vessel is close to the towing boat in freeboard to Bt 2 run the tow line through the hawsehole and wrap it around the after towing bitt.