Twin tow wire in V-configuration

Connecting two wires improves precise and safe manouvring, especially helpful when entering the locks

The new build tugs of Iskes, with the TRITON as the first, are equiped with a double drum - independently controlled - forward winch, so that they can pay out two tow wires at the same time and also control each wire independent of the other.

This is especially helpful when very large and/or wide vessels enter the locks or when there is a situation where manouvring in narrow spaces is requested, but also when the assisted vessel has no centre stern bollard (see photo). 

With the two wires connected to both stern "corners" of the assisted vessel, the tug can very quickly change the sideways pulling power from port to starboard or vice versa without the tug itself having to do much repositioning. So very quick response times when the pilot wants to exercise different directions of pulling power.

Also the two wire configuration can be used under circumstances where otherwise two tugs would be requested at the stern. This happens occasionally with very large vessels that also are sensitive to wind (such as container vessels). With a 'one tug / two wire' configuration the use of an extra tug is saved, resuting in less costs to the owner of the assisted vessel. Also from the tug(s) perspective it is a better and safer situation because when two tugs are - in parallel - connected to the stern of the assisted vessel the tug masters also have to watch out for each other instead of being able to focus fully on the assisted vessel. Also in a two tug configuration it is still not easy to apply sideways pulling power in a narrow space without the risk of 'bumping' into the other tug. 

All in all the two-wire-configuration provides both operational and cost benefits to the assisted vessel and at the same time the 'one tug / twin wire' is safer then the 'two tugs / one wire' configuration.