Dinghies Towed

If you slow down suddenly, turn, or go astern while you have the dinghy on a long tow-line, you will come into contact with the dinghy and the dinghy tow rope will foul the propeller shaft. The damage can be significant and can spoil your holiday. The dinghy must be tied alongside or short astern when manoeuvring, anchoring or coming into any marina or anchorage. So the dinghy cannot be caught under the transom or the rope caught on the prop/s when manoeuvring.

• Slow down (and drop sails) before bringing the dinghy alongside.

The dinghy can only be towed alongside or short if going slowly (less than 3 knots) in calm water, otherwise it will capsize.

• Ensure the remainder of the tow rope is not allowed to trail in the water.

• When attaching the dinghy tow rope to a cleat, make sure it is properly secured (looped through the cleat).

• Appoint one crew member to be completely responsible for the dinghy during main vessel manoeuvres.

• When underway the dinghy tow rope must be at full length to prevent the dinghy from being capsized by the seas or wind.

• Ensure that you are travelling at a slow controlled speed while letting out the dinghy tow rope. Serious injury to fingers or hands will be caused by attempting to let a dinghy out while under sail or cruising at high speeds.

• The dinghy is not insured overnight, if not tied alongside with a bow and stern line.