How to make an emergency towing bridle - USCGA

[rsn48]

Here's a short video I found quite helpful:

 

[Alaskan Sea-Duction]

Nice. Thanks for sharing

 

[GFC]

I've never seen that before but it looks easy to put together and use.


I have two bridles made by the company I linked to below. They're high quality, made to my order and made with good line.


https://mooringlines.com/mooring-lines/tow-lines-tow-bridles/

 

[Fish53]

I'd prefer a butterfly, a catspaw doesn't like side loads such as you may see turning or if the tow tends to yaw excessively. It's just as easy to make, stays once made and can accommodate hardware like a shackle with a simple larks head. I should add that in practice you'd want a longer lead than is shown if you're towing any weight.

 

[Ski in NC]

I just use a simple loop. I like being able to slide the shackle (or let the shackle slide) more to one side or the other depending on conditions. And with the center point of the tow way back aft of the boat, directional control sucks (single engine). Best tow point is centered well fwd of prop and rudder (which I do not have). Way aft and especially pinned in a loop, whatever tow does it will resist your effort to steer. Some tows I just use one transom cleat or the other, at least I know I can steer one way. I hip tow until open water anyway.