towing

[brs517]

Hi, I'm just planning ahead...<br /><br />If and when I ever need to be towed in by another boat, what is the proper way to do it? My boat is a 16' Chaparral open-bow. Should I attach a tow-line onto the bow eye? Or somewhere else? How long should the tow line be?<br /><br />I just want to make it as easy and safe as possible for anyone who is nice enough to stop & help me.<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Brian

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: towing

20 - 25 feet is plenty and the bow eye is a good hook up point.<br /><br />Bob

 

[JB]

Re: towing

Howdy, BRS.<br /><br />If possible, it is a good idea to have one end of the tow line able to be loosed immediately should an emergency require it. <br /><br />A simple way to do this is to have a passenger in the towing boat hold the end after looping it once or twice through a lifting eye.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[jocko_nc]

Re: towing

...ang GO SLOW!<br /><br />I typically see the tow vessel with a line bridging both rear tie down D rings. The actual tow line is then connected to that line. Kind of like a ski line hookup, it allows for some lateral give.<br /><br />Watch the length of the towline at speed, you want to avoid both boats hitting waves at opposite intervals which would compound stress on the lines.<br /><br />Be careful of a line break, someone could get seriously hurt when that thing snaps back.<br /><br />Obviously, you would never get on plane while towing. Take it slow.<br /><br />jocko