GL: Push barge-viable concept?

[Ron Rogers]

Generally, tugs and towboats perform this function in two different ways.
Pointy tugs are specifically designed to fit into an articulated crotch of a
barge, usually a fuel barge, and drive the combination anywhere to include
the ocean. Towboats operating in confined waters place their "tows" "on a
wire" out in front of them. Those wires are under great tension. Often, the
towboat will request that a ship pass on a "slow bell" explaining they have
"X" number of barges out in front on a wire. Every time that I have heard
this request, the ship has willingly assented.

So, there are some design parameters to consider, even in calm waters.

Ron Rogers