Question 1509Navigation General

The correct answer is D) 250 feet from the head of the tow. The pivot point of a tow unit is approximately 25% of the distance from the head of the tow to the stern of the towboat. Since the distance from the stern of the towboat to the head of the tow is 800 feet, and the towboat has the same draft as the barges, the pivot point will be located about 250 feet (25% of 800 feet) from the head of the tow. The other options are incorrect because they do not align with the standard rule of thumb for locating the pivot point of a tow unit. Option A (600 feet) is too far from the head of the tow, Option B (400 feet) is too close, and Option C (at the head of the tow) does not take into account the length of the tow.