Looking for description of ferrys unloading
Looking for description of ferrys unloading
(OP)
Hi,
I am trying to find a description of how ferrys can stabilize their docking or unloading while pushing against the dock (or whatever tstructure they are trying to dock against).
I know it's common practise for captains of ferrys and other vessels frequently loading and unloading to simply push against the dock instead of tying off, but I really need a description of it. Does anyone know of a manual, book, or webpage where this practise is described it would be of great help!
Thank you!
/John
I am trying to find a description of how ferrys can stabilize their docking or unloading while pushing against the dock (or whatever tstructure they are trying to dock against).
I know it's common practise for captains of ferrys and other vessels frequently loading and unloading to simply push against the dock instead of tying off, but I really need a description of it. Does anyone know of a manual, book, or webpage where this practise is described it would be of great help!
Thank you!
/John





RE: Looking for description of ferrys unloading
I've never seen a vehicle ferry do it, except to put some preload in the hawsers before cinching them up and dropping the ramp.
I'm not saying it's never done, but given the separating force that is potentially generated by a vehicle on a slanted ramp, I'd have to classify the practice as dangerous, and I'd guess it must be illegal somewhere.
It's a bad idea from another standpoint; churning the (shallow) water near a ferry dock could put all sorts of stuff into the engine's cooling system, which generally doesn't do it any good.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: Looking for description of ferrys unloading
RE: Looking for description of ferrys unloading
Ferry capacity is about 30 cars or maybe a couple of semi trucks and a few cars. The ferry dock is L-shaped and has an adjustable ramp on the shore side. When the ferry gets to the dock the bow is pushed against the loading dock and also against tires that are on the pier that runs alonside it so it is contacting the front and side of the ferry. They then lower the front ramp to the appropriate level and also adjust the shore side ramp, the ramps are also adjusted occasionally if the load shift is large in the middle of loading/offloading. This happens a lot when there are semis on board. Engine noise is minimal so I assume the ferry is in gear with props barely turning.
If you need more info I know one of the captains that drives it. In fact I will be on it again in a few weeks so could ask or find out for you.