Merchant Mariner Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep Guide

The bow tow arrangement is commonly used for larger vessels because it provides superior control and maneuverability during towing operations. When the tug is positioned at the front of the towed vessel, it allows the tug to lead the way, giving it better visibility and the ability to navigate more effectively, especially in challenging conditions like strong currents or tight waterways. This arrangement helps to enhance the safety and stability of both the tug and the tow, particularly when dealing with large or unwieldy ships.

In addition, the bow tow method can be more efficient for pushing larger vessels into position, as the tug can exert force directly from the front, making it easier to align the tow with intended courses or docking locations. While other arrangements may still be applicable in specific scenarios, they typically do not offer the same level of control and ease of maneuverability for larger vessels as the bow tow arrangement does.