New TowPro system launched for captains to prevent tender loss

TSM Systems have launched a technologically advanced solution to reduce risk and actively prevent tender loss while in tow, known as TowPro. The system continuously streams live safety information from the tender to the yacht, preventing tenders from becoming adrift.

Many luxury tenders are already equipped with their own sophisticated navigation systems, including independent AIS, however regulations do not allow AIS to be in use whilst a vessel is under tow. The TowPro system is displayed to the crew in real-time on a touchscreen installed on the bridge, providing three groups of safety information: water levels in the tender, including bilge pump activity and battery life of the pumps, shock loads on the tow from any surging or yawing, and the motion of the tender.

Whilst TowPro is monitoring exactly what is happening with the tow, it will give a warning signal immediately and directly to the bridge of the yacht if something happens that might be a risk to the tender. It is the only product able to flag up these danger signals instantly, thus enabling a response before it’s too late.

The system is easy to install and requires minimal disturbance to the existing systems on the yacht, as there is no requirement for a new antenna nor any cables to run aft on the yacht. In the circumstance that the captain does lose the tow, TowPro activates the tender’s Emergency AIS to identify it as a hazard to other vessels and sends frequent position reports by satellite to a global tracking website, in order to aid recovery with a back-up battery offering at least seven days continuous operation. The system also triggers the COLREG lights ‘not under command’ to alert nearby vessels and avoid collision.

William Ferlazzo, head of sales at TSM Systems, commented, “Given the peace of mind that TowPro brings during the tow coupled with the potential of insurance led towing restrictions being reduced, including night-time towing, it is no wonder that TowPro has received such positive feedback from the industry.”

For more information, visit TSM Systems Ltd. For more news and yachting tips, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.