Question 550 Deck Safety

The correct answer is D) the catenary comes clear of the water. When towing another vessel at sea, the towing speed should be controlled to maintain a proper catenary (the curved shape of the tow line between the two vessels). If the towing speed is too fast, the catenary will come clear of the water, which indicates that the towing speed is excessive and should be reduced. This can cause strain on the tow line and the vessels involved. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) the "jumping" tow line is more indicative of an improper towing arrangement or rough seas, not necessarily excessive speed; B) the vessels not being "in step" could be caused by a variety of factors, not just speed; and C) the towed vessel going "in irons" (turning broadside to the wind and current) is more related to the towed vessel's handling characteristics, not the towing speed.