20/02/2025
TOW FAQs
After yesterday's departure, we've been getting a lot of tow questions, so we've compiled an FAQ to hopefully help. Be sure to follow this post for added FAQs as we get them.
1. How many feet of clearance was under the Walt Whitman Bridge?
Confirmed 8 feet of clearance.
2. Will they continue the tow at night? Yes. No stopping until she reaches Mobile.
3. How fast is she being towed?
Between about 5-6 knots, but it could be faster or slower depending on weather and ocean conditions.
4. How long will it take for her to get to Mobile?
Approximately 2 weeks.
5. Why wasn't there an 🇺🇲 flag flying when she left Philadelphia?
An attempt to fly a flag was made; however, the mast line was broken and couldn't be attached. High winds in the days before departure made it unsafe to spend extended period of time out on the mast to rig a new line & hook. Additionally, lights were not going to be on at night, which would fail to light the flag.
6. How can I find out where she's at during the tow?
You can follow her journey at www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/ssus.
7. Is there an alternative way to track?
You may use the Marine Traffic app for Android and iPhone and look for Vinik No 6. However, the full features of the app are only available for a subscription fee.
8. How close will she be to various shoreline locations?
On average, standing at sea level on the shore, a person can see about 3 miles out on a perfect clear day. Once she reaches open water, it's unlikely she'll hug the coast that close. Use the link in Question 6 to determine how far offshore she is to your hoped-for viewing location.
9. Which shipyard is she going to in Mobile to be prepped for reefing?
The Modern American Recycling Services (M.A.R.S.). Their website is here:
https://www.modernamericanrecyclingservices.com/facilities/mobile-alabama/
10. What can you tell me about the lead tug towing her?
Information about the Vinik No. 6 can be found below. While in open ocean, it is the only tug with the ship. No other tugs will be with her until she reaches Mobile Bay:
https://www.tugboatinformation.com/tug.cfm?id=10230
11. Will anyone be on board during the tow?
While personnel will remain onboard while she's within the confines of the Delaware River, once the ship reaches open water, all personnel will disembark. A ladder at a B Deck entrance, on both port & starboard sides, will remain affixed in the event someone from the tug needs to get aboard. Personnel will then re-board her at the mouth of Mobile Bay.
12. Will the Vinik No 6 need to refuel enroute to Mobile?
With a fuel capacity of almost 175,000 gallons, the tug should be fine for the entire round trip. No refueling even in Mobile.
13. Why is the tow line so long with the tug far away?
Ship tow lines are long to act as a "shock absorber" against sudden movements caused by waves, wind, or changes in direction, preventing the line from snapping under strain, especially in rough weather; this long line creates a "catenary" curve which helps absorb the impact of waves and allows the towed vessel to move more smoothly with the tug boat, adjusting the length based on sea conditions. This cable is 2 1/4" diameter.
14. Why is the ship and tug so far off shore?
The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. It's more fuel efficient to go in a straight line instead of hugging and following the curve of the East Coast. So while passing SC and GA, she'll be further offshore until she hits the tip of Florida.
While she's close to the eastern coast of Florida, once she makes the turn off the Florida Keys, she'll likely take a straight course right to Mobile. It's unlikely she'll be seen from the West Coast of Florida.
15. Are there any leaks in the hull?
The Big U remains over 90% structurally sound and is not taking on water; however, a dead ship tow does require a way to discharge water in the event that a leak does occur. Leak detectors, pumps, and piping are positioned at various locations in the ship to handle such a situation.
