When one upbound vessel is overtaking another vessel and both are pushing a tow ahead, what reaction may you expect?

Correct Answer: Option B — Both towheads will tend to drift apart, and the overtaken vessel will be slowed down.

When an upbound tow overtakes another, hydrodynamic interaction causes low-pressure areas between the units. Both towheads tend to drift apart due to cushion effects at the bows, while restricted water flow causes the overtaken vessel to experience a reduction in speed.