Gob Ropes, Use and Risks, by Captain Henk Hensen
Conventional tugs may be old school, but their safe operation is more crucial than ever as their numbers, and experienced crews, dwindle. The biggest risk? Not knowing your tug’s limits, which can lead to dangerous accidents like girting and capsizing. Enter the gob rope: a simple yet powerful tool that, when used correctly, can boost a tug’s capabilities and help prevent disaster.
There are three main gob rope systems, each offering different levels of safety and flexibility. The most advanced uses a winch for adjustable length, letting crews shift the towing point safely and quickly—no deckhands needed. But even the best gear can’t replace experience: safe speeds (ideally under 3 knots), proper equipment, and constant teamwork between tug masters and pilots are non-negotiable.
Bottom line: Know your tug, respect its limits, use the right gob rope system, and always keep safety front and center. With the right knowledge and tools, conventional tugs can still get the job done—safely and effectively.
Captain Henk Hensen, author of Tug Use in Port, Tug Stability and Bow Tug Operations, wrote an article on the use and risks of gog ropes. Read the full article here.
