[Ted Davisson]

Greetings From New Orleans !
Every oncce in a while we as NOBRA ship pilots are assigned to move ships that we affectionately refer to as a " Dead Ship " . We have coined the term
" Dead Ship " , due to th fact that the ship has either no steering , no engine or for that matter neither steering or a working engine ! We accomplish this assignment by using a number of tugs in order to literally
man handle the " Dead Ship " by positioning the tugs in such a manner and location that we can not only propell the " Dead Ship " but to actually steer the " Dead Ship " as well .
Futhermore , the biggest single factor that has recently come on the scene to accomplish this maneuver is the presence of highly maneuverable and high horse power " Tractor Tugs " ! The beauty of the " Tractor Tugs " is the fact that their twin engine and twin propellers can rotate a full 360 degrees and thus give the " Tractor TUg " the ability to maneuver and operate in any direction regardless of current .
Generally , most Pilot's will locate two tugs on both the port and starb'd hip or quarter of the " Dead Ship " with three tug lines in order to both back and come ahead and to even steer to a certain degree . Then we place another tug on the " Dead Ship's " transome to assist with the steering of the stern of the " Dead Ship " and to slow the " Dead Ship " if neccessary by simply going astern on the " Tractor Tugs " engines . last but certainly not least , we will place another " Tractor Tug " on the very bow or fore peak of the
" Dead Ship " in order to both control the ship's heading and direction .
These high powered and very maneuverable " Tractor Tugs " have certainly made the job both easier and safer but in no way will they or any other high piece gadgetry will replace the need of the highly skilled and trained Pilot to literally orchestrait these different componets to accomplish the job at hand with a " Dead Ship " !
In the pictures below you will see how we position and operate these tugs to not only steer the " Dead Ship " but to maneuver in down the river , around points and bends and into docks as well !
Just another day at the office !
Smooth Sailing !
Ted Davisson