Question 2361 Deck General

The correct answer is B) To quickly connect or release the towing hawser. The tow hook on a vessel serves the purpose of providing a secure and efficient connection point for the towing hawser (the line connecting the towing vessel to the vessel being towed). This allows the towing crew to quickly attach or detach the towing line as needed, which is essential for safe and controlled towing operations. The tow hook design facilitates the rapid coupling and uncoupling of the towing hawser, which is a key requirement for Coast Guard-approved towing procedures. The other answer choices are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the primary function of the tow hook. Option A is incorrect as the tow hook is not used to pick up the towing hawser from the water. Option C is incorrect as the tow hook is not used to recover the hawser from a barge. Option D is incorrect as the tow hook's purpose is not to prevent the hawser from fouling the propeller.