COURSE OVERVIEW:

Basics of Towing is a foundational course designed for maritime personnel involved in tugboat operations, harbor assistance, and coastal towing. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the mechanical and operational principles required to move or assist other vessels and structures safely. Participants will examine the different types of towing configurations, including towing from the stern, alongside (hipping), and pushing, to understand the specific applications of each method in maritime logistics.

The scope of this training involves a detailed look at towing hardware and equipment. Attendees will learn about the properties of various towing lines, including wire rope, synthetic fibers, and high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE), as well as the function of towing winches, hooks, and bitts. The course details the physics of towing, focusing on the concepts of bollard pull, center of lateral resistance, and the stability risks associated with "girting" or "tripping" a tugboat during high-tension maneuvers.

Coverage also includes the essential communication and coordination required between the tug, the tow, and the pilot. Participants will examine the safety protocols for connecting and disconnecting towing gear, the use of messengers, and the importance of emergency release mechanisms. By providing a clear understanding of the risks and best practices in towage, this course equips operators and deck crew with the knowledge to execute basic towing tasks with professional discipline and safety.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Identify the primary types of tugboats used in harbor and coastal towing.
2. Define the concept of "Bollard Pull" and its operational significance.
3. Distinguish between different towing configurations: Stern, Alongside, and Pushing.
4. Identify and inspect towing hardware: Shackles, Fairleads, and Gob-ropes.
5. Explain the characteristics and safe working loads (SWL) of towing lines.
6. Execute safe procedures for passing and receiving towing messengers.
7. Understand the stability risks and the danger of "Girting" a tug.
8. Operate towing winches and emergency release systems correctly.
9. Communicate effectively using standard maritime towing signals and radio.
10. Identify the specific hazards associated with towing in restricted waters.
11. Prepare a tow for a short coastal passage, including navigation lights.
12. Execute emergency procedures for line breakage or loss of power.
13. Implement basic maintenance for towing gear and deck machinery.

TARGET AUDIENCE:  

Tugboat Crew, Harbor Boat Operators, Marine Technicians, and Port Operations Staff.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.