Different Make Ups or Configuring the Tow Differently

In this video we look at different tow configurations. Pushing from astern, alongside and on the wire. Why we do it and when one configuration makes more sense then another.

[@billmoran3812]

Excellent demonstration. As a retired Coast Guard officer, I truly wish recreational boaters would take the time to learn why commercial vessels operate in certain ways. One of the big hazards in the NY area is small boats that don’t recognize when a tug is towing astern there is a wire trailing behind the tug. There was a well known tragedy many years ago when a power boat tried to pass between the tug and barge in mid LI Sound. He was flipped by the tow wire and the boat sank killing several people.

[@TimBatSea]

Very true. Unfortunately it is a situation that is much more common than it should be. I've told the story in the comments a few times already, but when someone splits the tug and tow, we try to minimize the danger by pulling back on the throttles to sink the wire. One of my friends cought the bottom trying to avoid killing someone and ruined a $30k wire and the 50' viking kept on going kept on its way never knowing he is alive today because my friend pulled them back. Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@Halfstep2024]

Man I’d love to have a few beers with you some day. It’s rare I stumble across content that can hold my interest for over 10 mins but this just nails it

[@TimBatSea]

I get off the boat tomorrow and my liver has been thirsty for 2 weeks. Lol. But seriously, thank you for the kind words and for watching.

[@southjerseysound7340]

James, I couldn't agree more. It's nice to see someone share something they take pride in doing and I'd definitely buy a round too.

[@trawlertravels6376]

@@southjerseysound7340 where do we meet up

[@trawlertravels6376]

Great work Capt'n

[@briancummings9122]

I am with you Jim, Next time I am in NY we should all have a beer together share sea stories

[@TimsBitsnPieces]

This is a great video to show people what is involved in towing, both pushing and alongside which we do most of here in Australia. I wish a lot of sailboat courses would at least show this so that sailors would get in their heads what is happening and why and leave enough space for us to manoeuvre. We use this practice (alongside with our stern 2-3' behind the stern of the other vessel) with our coast guard boats with disabled vessels that we are returning to a boat ramp.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you again for watching Tim. CUOTO

[@richardwest9054]

I am learning more about tug operation all the time, Tim. Thanks for the straightforward demonstrations.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Richard. CUOTO

[@kenprevatt1267]

I went home and told my wife I learned something new on KZbin called pushing in the notch she was immediately interested. Thanks Tim !!!!

[@TimBatSea]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣👍👍👍👍👍 That's great!

[@powderflint]

You bring up things that are very interesting !!! Beats the crap out of watching the news with my coffee this morning !! Thanks for another great video !!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you! I really appreciate it!

[@johnleach7879]

You are a good instructor. Next week: Multi-length and width tows, heavy vs light vs empty tows. Next month: shallow water considerations and current cheating. Well done.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you John. Please consider subscribing if you haven't already. I try to post every Tuesday and lately a few extra times for those that are stuck at home.

[@bobraymond6135]

Your visual aides are simple and easy to understand. Very informative!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you Bob. CUOTO

[@NoewerrATall]

That was a great video! Very clear and endlessly fascinating. The paper vessels really helped to visualize what you were explaining. So much to think about when you are out on the water! Also answered several questions that I have had watching other of your videos. I realize this is an older video, but I'm relatively new here and working my way through the older videos. Just because it's older doesn't make it any less interesting!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you very much for watching and welcome to the channel Eric. CUOTO

[@harborcbs]

Having worked in the marine industry for over 30 years, I am all to familiar with all these terms and illustrations you've shown, however I do enjoy watching your videos and seeing that there are still a few good captains still around. It's possible that we've passed each other or spoken on 13 a time or two as I have spent most of my time in NY harbor. Very nice videos Tim, keep them coming we all enjoy them!

[@TimBatSea]

You have know idea how much it means to me when a fellow Tugboat Captain (and a veteran at that) has such nice things to say. I really thank you! Please consider subscribing. I need more of you guys on my channel.

[@billysmith5721]

what years did u work in ny harbor

[@TimBatSea]

@@billysmith5721 1853-1868

[@TimBatSea]

@@billysmith5721 I have been coming through and working on and off in NYC/NJ harbor since 2001, but have been mostly doing bunker work there for the past few years.

[@perrydiddle3698]

@@TimBatSea (Says no rookie himself.). I know you’re not selling yourself short. But you do know that many Mariners and seasoned captains have tremendous respect for you.

[@michaelclark6434]

Captain, really do like your videos I worked on the western Rivers for almost 28 years I really found what you're talkin about very interesting and I learned a whole lot thank you very much for your videos

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you and welcome to the channel Michael. I try to post new content every Tuesday.

[@brianshields7137]

Well explained after 37 years of doing this it's like a second nature but for those learning or weekend boaties it made good sense cheers from Australia ,, brian

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Brian from down under. If you are you to the channel, welcome. Please consider subscribing as I try to post new content every Tuesday. CUOTO

[@TimBatSea]

Oops. I see you are not new to the channel. Well, welcome just the same.

[@orchidhouse297]

That was a fascinating video. I've learned so much about why things are done in particular ways. Thank you so much.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Bernard. CUOTO

[@combatmedic1980]

Hi, You were perfectly clear to me, and very interesting, love your calm demeanor in explaining all about the tugboat industry. I did some very small pushing of 2-300 ft of boat docks on the Susquehanna River in Harrisburg Pa area with a pusher barge we had with twin outboard engines. I know your laughing , but it was fun for me and I have always been fascinated with tugs and thought at one time doing it. So when I came across your channel by accident , I was hooked and have watch each and every one and look forward to more, Thanks !!

[@TimBatSea]

Matt! That is the nicest comment i think i have ever got. Thank you. I really appreciate it!

[@king2042]

Never been on a ship in my life, but that made perfect sense to me. Great job!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for watching and please consider subscribing.

[@thecriticalstatepodcast]

I’m an ICU Registered Nurse and have grown up pleasure boating but have no commercial boating experience. All we have in New Mexico are a couple puddles compared to other places. I’ve always been in awe of tugs in ports and the skill of the captain. Whenever on a cruise or in port in general I spend time looking for tugs. I find your content very awesome, I’ll probably never have a place to use the knowledge you share but I love learning from your videos. Thank you for taking time out of your life to educate on your profession and teaching other boaters off your experience. May the seas always be on your side and our maker watching over you!

[@thecriticalstatepodcast]

If I ever end up in your neck of the woods or you come through the beautiful desert down here I owe you a cold one!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for watching. It really means alot to me. And oh yes, after s few weeks of "SeaTox" i am so ready for a beer and it always tastes so much better when someone else is buying! Lol. Thank you again.

[@MrDavidSLewis]

Best description of boat-to-boat catenary I've heard. "In step" is an ideal rarely experienced in nature, lol

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Dave. It's rarely experienced while towing as well. Lol. I try to post new content every Tuesday.

[@thomasbell2222]

4th issue with 95% of my time on red flags on LMR and ICWW.. Im enjoying the hell out of your videos.. just wanted you to know. .

[@TimBatSea]

Welcome aboard Cap. Thank you for watching. CUOTO

[@frankcadillac9151]

You "done good" explaining it Tim, if someone didn't understand they weren't paying attention. I was stationed in Pensacola Fla. the intercostal waterway went through the base, liked to watch the barges especially at night. This yankee was adopted by the locals, we used to go shrimping in Mobile bay we'd follow the push boats their screws would kick up the shrimp from the mud along with fish and crabs.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Frank. That's cool. I too have been followed by shrimp boats and now that makes sense. CUOTO

[@billc3343]

Outstanding explanation of the dynamic ocean energy, Good job!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Bill. CUOTO

[@ArchangelMichaelable]

good job Tim a 25 minute video is not a problem with you narrating and demonstrating! Towing with the cable reminded me of a instance this summer, I was heading back to my home Port in Stratford, CT from Port Jefferson in NY, and thier was a tug in tow with a barge 1,000 feet or so behind it I recognized it immiediatley on a Sunday afternoon as the Sun was fading to sunset but the boater in a 40 foot yacht a few miles in front of me perhaps did not as he proceeded to head for the gap between the tug and the barge I fearing for all persons on board that vesell continued to try and hail that vesell on channel 16 with no response and then channel 13 to atleast notify the Captain of the barge of the pending situation, with no response from either party, I thank God the 40 foot yacht tuned to port at what I would call the last minute and a disater was avoided. Good night.

[@TimBatSea]

Unfortunately I can say i have witnessed that exact situation and it happens more than you might think. There are literally people walking around alive today not aware that someone saved their lives by pulling back the throttles and letting the wire sink. One of my friends did that in buzzard's bay whole 50 plus foot viking split the tug and tow. My friend almost lost his job because the wire snagged on the bottom and the company had to replace a brand new $30k wire. And the guy on the viking never even knew. At least no one even saw him. We think he was down below on autopilot.

[@ArchangelMichaelable]

@@TimBatSea I believe it Tim at picth black night unless they have some clue as to the different lights that show you are towing it is even more dangerous, I am glad your friend saved some lives that day I believe in God and what comes around goes around he did the right thing!

[@TimBatSea]

@@ArchangelMichaelable without a doubt!

[@chipstetson5819]

Capt. Tim, these videos are great! When I was young I wanted to be a pilot and thats exactly what I did. However, during those same developmental years, I thought if I couldn't be a pilot I wanted to do your job! There's so many similarities between flying and sailing/boating. I'm happy with my career but I think I would have been equally happy had I joined your profession. The questions I've had all these years are just about all answered! Thanks!

[@TimBatSea]

Cool. It's funny, i always wanted to be a pilot. You guys get all the girls! Lol. Thank you for watching.

[@Goldchucker1]

Your explination of the tow line working as a shock absorber is the same as having several feet of chain on an anchor line. It's give and take. As the current works against the boat, the anchor chain will lift off the bottom. When the current let's up the chain will settle back down to the bottom. There is no sudden jerk on the anchor or boat. The chain also heep the anchor dug in to the bottom. Your paper props are great.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Chuck..#CUOTO

[@recycle343]

Tim your display was beautiful made everything easy to understand, keep it up.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you very much for watching and welcome to the channel. CUOTO

[@kustom4935]

This is awesome. I never understood why a tug would push a barge backwards. Now I know why... Heads and tails.... due to the stern of the barge having more weight. This stuff is fascinating! Thanks for sharing all this interesting info!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for watching!

[@jackm4881]

Excellent explination of towing and pushing.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Jack. If you are new to the channel, Welcome. Please consider subscribing. I try to post new content every Tuesday (tomorrow). CUOTO

[@martinmaloney7294]

I must be weird, I could listen to this content forever!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you Martin. You aren't weird.

[@chrisvanover5177]

Excellent teaching! Reminds me of a guy who's used to work for one of the insurance company's on the west coast. He was at every boat show with a big play mat and a bunch of wooden boats demonstrating different scenarios of docking, winds etc. Emphasis on spring lines. I learned more from him in an hour than in practice for 50 years. Great video. Thanks. C

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you fir watching Chris. If you are new to the channel, Welcome. I try to post new content every Tuesday. CUOTO

[@andrewleatherman4931]

Another great video. Your visual aids are just perfect! Not everything in life has to be cutting edge or computer generated. A good old fashioned paper visual aid, if used well (which you do), easily helps those of us not Maritime inclined (me being one of them, my sea legs are not good) understand what you’re doing.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you very much Andrew. I appreciate your kind words very much!

[@rollingcoal9500]

Awesome! I live up from nyc in haverstraw bay Rockland side of the Hudson. Since I was knee high I would see you boys going up and down the river for years and years. Never knew how detailed towing barges is. I thought it was all brute force and just dragged it where you needed it. But you got all kinds of tricks to help you out! So interesting thank you so much! Can’t wait to show off my new tug lingo to the boys 👍👍

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you very much for watching and please consider subscribing. I really do appreciate your kind words.

[@Robin-lg7xv]

Just wow! I learned so much from your videos! Discovered your channel today and I can’t get enough! Thank you!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Mohammed and welcome. I try to post new content at least every Tuesday.

[@stevebailey7633]

A great subject and great explanation of the towing methods. For others interested, a great read about a real life deep long range ocean rescue tug is “Grey Seas Under”, Canadian author Farley Mowatt. About the Foundation Franklin that operated out of Halifax, NS 1930 - 1948. One of Mowatts great stories.

[@TimBatSea]

Mowat is one of my favorites. I've read probably 10 or 12 of his books. My local library has something like 26 of his books. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@bobm2331]

Well done Tim, if a land lubber can understand then you did a very clear job. Always wondered why some tugs were pulling. A video someday of encounters with "rec" boater would be fun.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Bob. Fun for you. 😂 I'll see what I can do. CUOTO

[@fprintf]

You did a fine job explaining the cantenary curve. The weight of the wire helps act as a shock absorber as the weight of the wire has to be lifted out of the water as the barge slows down and the tug goes a little faster.

[@TimBatSea]

Yes. That's it! Thank you for watching.

[@TheByard]

Thanks for that and you did explain it well. I worked in tunnel construction most of my working life and several have been under body's of water, one was under the Rivers Severn and Wye in the west of the UK. The Severn Estuary has the 2nd highest tidal range in the world. I spent most of my time at Beachley between the Severn & Wye at the midway shaft, barge traffic would pass us, coming up river with the 3-5 knot tide. The tug would be pulling 3 or 4 barges loaded with logs for the plywood factory at Lydney opposite Sharpness and would need to lock in at high water. Pulling a string of barges the end barge would be parallel with the tug, and who that skipper negotiate the dogs leg through sand banks upriver from the Severn Bridge (1) was great to watch. I water skied on it and should you fall off you held the ski up high so the boat can find you as you could be swept away very fast. I was young and nuts at the time.

[@TimBatSea]

Hahaha Great story, thank you for sharing!

[@YB210]

Great explanations. I look forward to more on boat handling. I know my stuff but seeing how the big boys do things is on another level. Great job, thanks!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@YB210]

@@TimBatSea Already have, was a no brainer, good content.

[@williamsestrom6355]

Very clear. the wire is a shock absorber. Perfectly explained, and thanks!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@jimsnow8004]

Fascinating. I did a fair amount of small boat hip towing without some of the background understanding of environmental factors you describe. It woulda made it a lot easier... Getting balanced tension on all four lines, with the best angle-in was a key piece for us. When we had a keelboat alongside in open water, we sometimes got the tow master to do the steering until things got tight. Please don't apologize, you're doing great, the process of thinking it through and presenting it will support your mastery, while at the same time it demonstrates the way of ongoing improvement. And I wish new car drivers were taught "walking"...

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and for your kind words. Stay safe out there.

[@speedmachine69]

That was excellent Sir, learned a heap...... thank you from New Zealand......

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you my kiwi friend.

[@phillange166]

Fascinating and important knowledge, thank you!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@waynegutschmidt7586]

Another great video. It made 100% sense. Have you ever have a cable snap on you or have you ever had a ship or barge run away from you that you could tell us about. I would love to see you showing us what you do moving a boat what is happening and what you are doing to control it. ⚓

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you Wayne. I've been lucky not to have lost a wire while towing. I did break a push leg coming out of the east end of the cape cod canal about 10 years ago. Unfortunately posting less than Stellar jobs doesn't go over well with those that employ me. And it may be best to say that jobs only go well now. Lol. Thank you for watching.

[@TimBatSea]

I may be able to talk about jobs and how we try to react to changing circumstances.

[@waynegutschmidt7586]

@@TimBatSea I look forward to that video.

[@TomLeg]

The sh-sh-sh sound effects absolutely MAKE your demonstration of the ATB. The explanation of towing is totally clear ... thanks

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Tom. Please consider Subscribing if you haven't already. I try to post new content every Tuesday.

[@Glide1992]

Well done. That answers a few questions. I have been around powerboats and sailboats all my life and the wind and waves can make it hard to dock one of those. It amazes me how you put all the inertia of a barge perfectly into a slip, or alongside a dock with a lot of external forces trying to make it difficult. Very impressed every time in your videos. You make it look easy. This video explains the different set ups to help you get it done. My first time, I would be having a heart attack. Seems like one could cause millions of dollars damage if a docking went horribly wrong. I am thinking a ton of experience helps a well.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you again. Yes, when things go bad, they usually go very wrong and millions of dollars in damage and lost time can take place in one long second. But you start with a good plan and work the situation as it develops. As you said, the more experience you have, hopefully your plan is more accurate to what really happens.

[@PanzerDave]

Great video. The explanation was tremendous and I liked the high tech visual aids. Thanks for the information. I don't remember how I found your channel but I've been a subscriber for a month or two now and have loved every video.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for the kind words. They make it all worthwhile. Thank you again!

[@chadwinters6089]

Makes total sense Tim!!! Almost common sense lol!!! Great video, Thanks for taking the time!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching.

[@timdemarco5079]

Perfectly clear instructions 👍

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for watching.

[@bbjnimens]

Excellent video... much appreciated Tim. Really well done.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for the kind words and for watching.

[@mitchelllong467]

I understand everything that you explained here! Well done Tim!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Mitchell.

[@Dinoxt12]

Very interesting, now I have a more of a understanding of whats going on with a Tug . Capt knows his stuff. I've always liked Tugs. Good Video Capt.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for the kind words and for watching!

[@svbluehighway]

Love your channel, thanks for explaining the “pinch” advantages. You have a great relaxed delivery sharing your knowledge. Have a good watch...

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for watching.

[@jacobnorris2017]

Love the videos. I work on an assist tug on the Mississippi. Nice to see how you guys do things in other ports.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you brother mariner. Really appreciate it!

[@FlyTyer1948]

Very clear. Thank you. As I read the comments & questions posted for this video, the only question I have not seen for this video topic is: if you are towing with a long wire & have to slack off for a clueless boater crossing between you & the barge, how deep could the wire go? p.s. I just saw a short history (about 9 minutes) of the construction of the Cape Cod Canal posted quite a while ago on KZbin by the Cape Cod Times. A quick search should find it if you are interested. The “Bournedale” referred to in the video is a small village at & above the Herring Run.

[@TimBatSea]

Short answer. To the bottom. Unfortunately that's usually where it goes and get snagged or as we say "hung" resulting in having to replace a $30,000 wire for someone, many times not Evan aware that the tug operator saved their lives. CUOTO

[@FlyTyer1948]

@@TimBatSea Aye. I should also have asked how deep would the wire be likely to go on a normal long tow? My bad.

[@TimBatSea]

@@FlyTyer1948 I think you are missing the point of why we tow. We do this so the weight of the wire acts as a shock absorber. So on a normal or typical tow with a loaded barge and 1200' of wire out, the wire could drop to as much as 50 feet or more and then come almost to the surface. (The wire moves up and down reacting to the change in loading)

[@bobrichards8924]

Really informative Cap, thanks again

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Bob.

[@j.patrickdonaghue199]

Hi Tim That was excellent very clear to me. I always thought that I would like to do tug boats they always interested me . However I think that I am getting too old to make to make those changes so I will just keep running the tour boats and enjoy being retired for the rest of the year. My season starts again in about a month and a half. Keep the videos coming I really enjoy them.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you Cap. I really appreciate it!

[@aleksandrkonevshchynsky5361]

Thanks Capt. Good job.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Aleksandr. If you are new to chanel, welcome. Please consider subscribing. I try to post new content every Tuesday. CUOTO

[@rahepla]

Another great episode. Thks for sharing with all of us and best regards from Spain again.

[@TimBatSea]

Muy bien. Y gracias a ti también! Gracias por mirar y por favor considere suscribirse.

[@rahepla]

@@TimBatSea I'm actually subscribed. I just came across your channel and love it...

[@TimBatSea]

@@rahepla Thank you so much.

[@rickt4552]

Fascinating information Skipper ... thank you ...

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider Subscribing if you haven't already. I try to post new content every Tuesday.

[@rickt4552]

@@TimBatSea yes ....for sure ....

[@rogerdeves1511]

Very clear explanation Tim. Answered so many questions....some I didn't know to ask. Excellent mate Ingat kuya

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you very much Roger!

[@saabjunkieSPG]

Fantastic video. I’m from the Chesapeake and have seen many tugs towing in front switch up to towing along side before going through the Bay Bridge mid bay. Now I have a better understanding why!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing.

[@saabjunkieSPG]

I subbed weeks ago, great stuff.

[@darrenhillman8396]

Really good explanation, Tim. Visual aids - keep it simple! Stay safe out there!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you Darren.

[@actemple3282]

super cool video ...love them ...thank you

[@TimBatSea]

Now I feel stupid for asking you to subscribe. You must have by now. Thank you very much.

[@mhansl]

Crystal clear, Capt. Also, your arts and crafts skills are tight!

[@TimBatSea]

Hahaha. Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@joahgeejr.3340]

Another awsome vid cap'n , described it perfectly. 😀😀😀

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much!

[@drumset09]

I grew up in Minnesota close to the Mississippi. I always wondered why I'd see so many tugs moving barges backwards. Now I know!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider Subscribing if you haven't already. I try to post new content every Tuesday.

[@joshwelner1951]

Very well explained Me Maine commercial fishermen I wish tow barges had better lights on them. They scare me the most and there lights aren't always great at all and sometimes you think your looking at a double echo on the radar my 2cents great video 👍 👍

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching. Keep an eye out for three white mast lights (towing) or two white mast lights (pushing or alongside). Please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@joshwelner1951]

@@TimBatSea found your channel last week and subscribed up my way it's the stern light on the barges don't show well

[@nomerc3608]

Awesome teaching video!!!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for watching.

[@robertroper2888]

Wow, there is a lot to know! I often wondered about this....thank you.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing.

[@robertherman8051]

Awesome description!!!!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Robert. If you are new to the channel, Welcome. Please consider subscribing. I try to post new content every Tuesday. CUOTO

[@AndyMillerPhotoUK]

Very well done -- many thanks

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you Andy

[@akbells457]

This channel is great. Can you add more split screen shots of you maneuvering. Like one of the throttles and rudder when driving from the aft steering station.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching. The split screen video I did was an experiment, and I think it was well received. I hope to do more in the future.

[@shortribslongbow5312]

Thanks for the class on towing nice to know how and why. :o)

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching!

[@gwalker173]

I’ve been working on inland push boats for almost a year now and did a hitch on an offshore tug and you explained all that pretty great. It’s interesting to see how y’all do it at vane compared to how our company operates.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@gwalker173]

Been subscribed since the day in life video love the content

[@relicguzzidog]

You're a good teacher. Very enjoyable channel. Please keep sharing. Thanks.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for watching. Please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@relicguzzidog]

@@TimBatSea, no worries, I subbed last week and have since caught up on just about all your videos including the special "subscribers only".

[@TimBatSea]

@@relicguzzidog thank you very much.

[@seatiger3540]

Very impressive.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you very much!!!

[@jacebigelow]

Thank you for the video ! Very much enjoyed and I sub'd to the channel back when the NY Harbor video came out. I have an off-topic question; do the barges have any form of propulsion at all ? What about at least a generator for lights, heat, pumps, comms ? You should do a video on the different types of fuel oil that these ships and barges carry. 🍻

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and Subscribing. No, the barges have no propulsion. They do have generators and huge pumps (some bigger than your car). But if they were self propelled, they would need crew to run in, ie captain mate engineer, ect. I would love to do a barge video, but access is much more restricted than on a tug because they are basically a floating (hopefully) bomb. Thank you again.

[@Mike-oxlong1029]

I'm currently underway to cortes bank while watching this. Hope you get a break soon Cap. You're videos are the best

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much! Be careful out there. Really appreciate your kind words!

[@Mike-oxlong1029]

@@TimBatSea Yessir. It's pretty gnarly but I've got my t.v and radar. I hope you're staying safe and steaming on.

[@James-seafan]

interesting video thank you tim

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching James. CUOTO

[@BLAMBERRY]

....after watching this i feel I’m ready to handle a tugboat , I’ll just Add that to my list of KZbin qualifications....

[@TimBatSea]

Hahahahaha. Thank you for watching.

[@Xander_Zimmermann]

I am KZbin qualified to drive a tank, command a naval contingent, and opperate various weaponry.

[@TimBatSea]

@@Xander_Zimmermann hahahahaha

[@johnbereza7782]

@@Xander_Zimmermann I can repair and start any engine of any type from Briggs&Stratton to ship's diesels.

[@kenprevatt1267]

BLAMBERRY I even learn how to replace an injection pump on a bobcat engine ..lol it’s all out here

[@glennlepien473]

Great job of explaining the different configurations of towing, Capt. Tim .. besides the mechanics of the tow do you ever go into the Lights and Day Shapes that you are required to display while towing? and .. how due you rig those Lights and Shapes? .. Thanks again for another great video .. Great Channel.

[@TimBatSea]

That is a difficult one to publish. You will find that the sea has a way of thing being done that at times does not align with the CFRs. So that seems like a part littered with legal land mines. But I will tell you that our lights of the tug are permanently mounted. We have lights on the upper and lower wheelhouses. And we fly a towing diamond when towing off shore on the wire.

[@kenmunozatmmrrailroad6853]

I always learn something interesting here.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much for watching.

[@marvinwestern4276]

I think that you made perfect sense.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Marvin. If you are new to the channel, welcome. Please consider subscribing if you haven't already. I try to post new content every Tuesday. CUOTO

[@firstlast1047]

Speaking of the catenary. One of our crew boats was entering the river basin at night. Ahead, in the basin, a tug was coming off the wire to put the barge on the hip for the trip upriver. The Capt of our crew boat had gone down below for some reason and had the deckhand on the wheel. This was not uncommon for open and unobstructed waters. The deckhand went between the tug and barge. Fortunately, he went over the catenary. The 20 minutes in took the crew boat to reach home port and dock, the USCG was waiting for them. Of course the captain and deckhand were required to pee. It was rumored the deckhand refused and was fired.

[@TimBatSea]

Wow! That's crazy. Thank you for weighing in! Please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@dhenschel4]

Thanks for this series, so informative and interesting, issues that make your job so important. I remember your radar indicates the orientation of the tug which is fine when you are in "push" or "along side", as the tug is the same orientation as the barge. How do you know the orientation of the barge when you are in a "pinch" or "tow" as that is what you really want to know right? I assume you rely on signals from your deckhands on position but I really like the radar information and assume it is well respected on your part.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching David. In a very broad sense, i really don't care how the barge is oriented when alongside. As soon as I get underway, I will know by how much or how little counter rudder I need to apply. One look out the wind is enough. As far as towing a barge, you can see it on radar, but most times we just have a look at it with our eyes and we are all good. CUOTO

[@TheIndianbastard]

Watching this video as an ATB mate. waiting for you to say something about our system. The "pins" are an INTERCON coupler system tension and detension automatically with automated greasing as frequently as selected by the user input sea state. Pins are retracted before loading or discharging and retensioned, also have a lightering mode. sometimes feel quesy watching the barge steady while i sit in the chair pitching back and forth.

[@TimBatSea]

Oh you ATB guys get no sympathy from me. When you are feeling a little movement, I'm getting my butt kicked. Lol. Be safe my brother. Please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@TerryRossi]

new subscriber - great stuff! Keep it up!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you so much.

[@325DanES]

You did Good!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@bobraymond6135]

Makes complete sense!!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please do consider Subscribing if you haven't already. I try to post new content every Tuesday. CUOTO

[@michaelchabon2243]

Hi, Tim. Very interesting video and I learned a lot (Thank You!) , including your explanation of the tow line acting as a shock absorber between the tug and the tow against sea swells. You might like to add how the line between the tug an the tow acts as a dampener. I would think that when the tug crests down the wave after the swell passes, that the rising tug line is resisted by the water that it is submerged in as the line is pulled up, and similarly when the tug slows down relative to the tow. I never realized that a tug line would be kept submerged on purpose. Do I have the right idea? Thank You -Mike

[@TimBatSea]

Yes you are correct. Thank you for watching.

[@radsdad1]

I grew up on Day Island in Puget Sound. South of us was the Chambers Creek gravel pit and Seattle is to the north. So barge traffic was a daily occurrence. One tug was hauling gravel during a strong incoming tide and I saw the barge get caught in a tide rip and start overtaking the tug. The older Foss tug was struggling against the tide and hardly moving. After a few minutes, the barge had caught up to the tug and the wire did a huge S. The tide was increasing and both vessels were stuck in place, with the tug engine seeming wide open. After about 20 minutes into this stalemate, I looked up the Narrows and saw two of the new Foss tugs hauling butt down under the Narrows bridge and onto the scene. They both raced up to the barge and pushed it back to where the wire was straight. Then one held it in place and the other threw a line to the older tug and pulled it and the barge up through the Narrows. Just something I've never forgotten.

[@TimBatSea]

Wow. Amazing to have seen, but I'm glad it wasn't me out there. I bet someone needed a new set of boxers after that. Thank you for watching.

[@briancummings9122]

Many years ago I was crossing the LIS (PT Jeff area) and a tug was pulling on a wire and a 30ft pleasure boat (inexperience) crossed between, I actually watched the bridge get cut in half, needless to say, the people on the bridge did not survive. Was very UGLY, That is what happens with you don't know your lights, Take the CG Auxiliary course before you go out, make the pros feel safe.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Brian. Very sad and avoidable story. I couldn't agree more with you. It seems odd that in most places, you need to take a weekend clad to run a jet ski. But anyone can buy a boat and head to sea.

[@kirk1618]

I remember the incident, or one similar. I’m referring to the Karen E incident. I was taught, at a young age, communicate and go behind the barge. Never cross the stern of an apparent lone tug in the sound. They aren’t out there by themselves very often, expect a barge!

[@robertcampbell6122]

do the rules for towing that you discussed the same all over the world? Very interesting!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching Robert and please consider Subscribing if you haven't already. I try to post new content every Tuesday. For the most part, yes. There are essentially two sets of rules (and a third offshoot) used here in the US. There is international rules, which are the same all over the world. Then as you get closer to shore, there are inland rules. These are very similar, but are rules for the US inland waters only. Then there are western river rules. They are a cousin to the inland rules.

[@jamesterrill1938]

Always interesting...Do your tugs use "direct" drive to the screws or are you able to rotate screws using electric as I understand the big ships do?

[@TimBatSea]

Most all tugs use engine torque sent through some sort of reduction gear then to the wheels or propellers. Even tractor tug have the same setup but their propellers are able to rotate horizontally.

[@TealCheetah]

Im surprised how interesting you made two pieces of paper and a mouse pad

[@TimBatSea]

I am easily amused. I and rendering a video and will try to upload it today that you will see just how much of a dork I am. I'm in Kingston NY at the moment, and there is hardly any signal. But as we go back to NYC I'll try to upload it. It should be good for a few laughs. Thank you for watching.

[@TealCheetah]

@@TimBatSea A large part of it is your personality. You're a good soul.

[@kirk1618]

Thank CapT!!

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you Kirk. CUOTO

[@tolex3]

Good job! :-)

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@dstarfire42]

"Just a tugboat captain" Yeah, who would be MORE knowledgeable about the forces involved in towing ships that can be of vastly different sizes?! Only ones I can think of are the COMMITTEES that make ship handling rules, and the TEAMS that design those different ships. But I get what you're saying. You're at the level of knowledge and skill where you're keenly aware that there's a shit-ton of stuff you don't know. Plus there's a certain pride in being aware of what you don't know. Amateurs and novices are cheerfully ignorant of just how incredibly much more there is to know.

[@TimBatSea]

Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@jimcarnicom9417]

Terrific. Seems like the length of the tow wire acts like a shock absorber, depending on weather and wave action, eh?

[@TimBatSea]

Yes. Exactly right. Thank you for watching and please consider subscribing if you haven't already.

[@MrTurboTurkey]

Theres a place outside mobile alabama that makes push boats and things. I want to say I believe it had 5 rudders and 2 conventional screws. I've seen squirrel cages too, do you have an opinion on those? Seems like it would leak a lot.

[@TimBatSea]

I am thinking you are referring to the voith schneider drive? If that is what you mean, then I can tell you I only have been assisted by boats that had them and they were amazing. But I've never run one.

[@_MOORE_1986]

My good friend was an offshore tug boat captain for about 45 years, he retired about 2 years ago.

[@TimBatSea]

That's great. I hope he is enjoying his well deserved retirement.

[@_MOORE_1986]

@@TimBatSea Yeah he is, but can tell he misses it a lot. He has worked on boats his whole life. He's ran Ferry's here in Washington State back in the 60s and Crab boats up in Alaska, then went to Tugs. He has a lot of interesting stories and pictures from all over.

[@TimBatSea]

@@_MOORE_1986 i bet! Very cool!

[@JoseRuiz-km6fd]

Capt. Can you do a video on navigational aids when you get a chance.

[@TimBatSea]

Sure. Give me a little time. I have some others to get to first, but I have wanted to do one on chartwork and buoys too.