Question 2329 Deck General

The correct answer is A) To allow the stern to swing more freely when using the rudder. Placing the stern towing bitts well forward of the rudder when hawser towing allows the stern to swing more freely when the rudder is used to maneuver the vessel. This positioning keeps the towing hawser from interfering with the rudder's range of motion, enabling the operator to make more effective use of the rudder to steer the vessel during the towing operation. The other options are incorrect because: B) is not the primary reason, C) is addressed by the forward placement, and D) is not a regulation or best practice for towing bitts placement.