Getting a tow for your sail or power boat at sea or on inland waterways

Getting a tow for your sail or power boat

FREE tips from the Safe Skipper App for iPhone/iPad/Android:

Getting a tow for your sail or power boat

Plan how to secure a tow rope to your boat. The tow rope must be attached to strong deck fittings
As a rescue boat approaches, warn them of any debris or loose lines in the water
If you are being rescued by a lifeboat, follow their instructions – they are experienced in rescue techniques
If necessary back the tow rope with other ropes to lead to other cleats and strong points on deck
Avoid using knots or loops that cannot be released under load
Protect the rope from chafing using plastic tube, rags or fenders
When being towed in a small boat, you will need to keep the weight well aft to keep the bow up
If the boat is down by the bows you may need to be towed from astern
The towed boat should always steer to follow the towing boat unless the steering has been disabled
The use of a drogue to aid towing can be used

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Boating Rules of the Road – International ColRegs

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