Abstract: On launch of a lifecraft from a marine platform or other vessel, an electrically powered tug connected to the lifecraft by stowed cable aligns the lifecraft away from the platform and tows it away from the platform in a predetermined attitude and track. In this way, the lifecraft is controlled in the hazardous initial period between launch and start of its own powered movement. The tug is advantageously stowed and launched bows-out and has an autopilot responsive to deviation of the towline from the tug fore-and-aft line to correct the tug helm so that the tug not only follows a predetermined compass heading but follows a predetermined track relative to the lifecraft. In a preferred version of the tug a portion of the towline is stored between a pair of sheave blocks biased towards one another to bring about towline retraction so that the towline is paid out as the tug is lowered and retracts into the tug during initial movement of the lifecraft with the tug still in the water and acting as a sea anchor.

Abstract: Apparatus for launching a lifeboat, rescue craft or like small craft from a marine platform or other vessel in a bows-out heading comprises a boom mounted on the vessel that deploys outwardly as the boat is lowered and that carries a bow line releasably attached to the boat. The boom and bow-line are arranged so that the bow-line holds the boat in a bows-out heading after the boat has been lowered and on release of the fall or falls accelerates the boat away from the vessel.