Towing Boats for Day Skipper and Yachtmaster

City Sailing video on towing. Essential for Royal Yachting Association Day Skipper Day Skipper Courses as well as RYA Yachtmaster and Coastal Courses. We explain the lights and shapes on the vessels towing and being towed. When a vessel is towing another vessel or object, it is important to display the appropriate lights and shapes to indicate its size, direction, and activity to other vessels in the area. Similarly, vessels being towed must also display specific lights and shapes to alert other vessels of their presence and movements. Here are some of the lights and shapes commonly used on vessels that are towing or being towed: Lights on Towing Vessels: Two masthead lights: A vessel that is towing another vessel or object must display two masthead lights, one above the other, with the lower light being the forward light. These lights indicate the size and direction of the towing vessel to other vessels in the area. Stern light: A towing vessel must also display a stern light, which should be visible from behind the vessel. This light helps other vessels determine the length of the towing vessel and the object being towed as well as the extra orange light to show the vessel is towing. Shapes on Towing Vessels: Diamond shape: A vessel that is towing another vessel or object must display a diamond shape during the day. This shape indicates that the vessel is restricted in its ability to maneuver and should be given a wide berth. Lights on Vessels Being Towed: Stern light: A vessel that is being towed must display a stern light, which should be visible from behind the vessel. This light helps other vessels determine the length of the vessel being towed. Shapes on Vessels Being Towed: Diamond shape: A vessel that is being towed must display a diamond shape during the day. This shape indicates that the vessel is restricted in its ability to maneuver and should be given a wide berth. It's important for all vessels to be aware of the lights and shapes used by vessels that are towing or being towed, as they are essential for maintaining safety on the water. These lights and shapes help other vessels determine the size, direction, and activity of the towing and towed vessels, so they can take appropriate action to avoid collisions and other dangerous situations. This will help you in your RYA Day Skipper and Yachtmaster exams Please watch our other videos to help you with our courses. Join this channel to get ALL of the RYA coursework: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHHQH6jcgluqGjkqQf5iLkw/join