Question 2266 Deck General

The correct answer is D) A fishplate, flounder, or towing plate. The fishplate, flounder, or towing plate is the correct component to connect the leading ends of the towing bridle legs to the main towing hawser. This provides a secure and reliable connection point between the towing vessel and the tow. The fishplate distributes the forces evenly across the towing system, preventing strain on any single connection point. The other options are incorrect because they do not serve the same purpose. The towing bitts (A) are used to secure the towing hawser on the towing vessel, not to connect the bridle legs. A pad eye (B) is a fixed eye or ring, which would not be suitable for the dynamic forces involved in towing. A cable clamp (C) is used to secure a cable, not to connect two separate components of a towing system.