) EMERGENCY TOWING MOORING ARRANGEMENT ON TOWED VESSEL

11) RELEASING THE TOWING TUG

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  When the Main Engine maintenance or repair is completed, the Chief Engineer will inform the Bridge that he is ready to revert to the Main Engine as primary propulsion.
  
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  The bridge will accept "bridge control” and notify all parties to standby for the release of the towline and Towing Tug.
  
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  The main shaft rpm will be increased slowly as the vessel’s speed increases. Therefore, the towing rope should slacken but not let go at that time.
  
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  When the load has been transferred to the main engines, and the Chief Engineer is happy with the machinery state, the order will be given "standby" to release the Towing Tug.
  
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  At "standby," the Towing Tug team will commence procedures to recover the tow.
  
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  The Towing Tug will heave in on the tow rope, disconnect it from the Main Towing Wire, and slowly slack it to the Seismic Ship.
  
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  The Seismic vessel will recover the slack tow rope on board and move out slowly; once the towline leaves the Towing Tug, the Tug will move clear of the spread and recover.
  
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  The tow rope must be checked for damage, and any required maintenance of the towing equipment should be carried out promptly, and the equipment made ready for use as soon as possible.
  
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  It is essential to follow these procedures carefully to ensure that the release of the Towing Tug is carried out safely and efficiently. In addition, any necessary maintenance or repairs to the equipment should be carried out promptly to ensure it is always in good working condition.