Springers is easy to describe...

They are ropes which go from the boat/target/whatever to the shore, one from the stern of the boat to the mooring pin at the bow of the boat and one from the bow of the boat to the mooring pin at the stern.

This stops the boat moving too much when tupperware tart carts blast by at speeds in excess of the speed limit, moving most of the water out of the channel.

now, of course, Sue will post and tell me that I am wrong.


F O R | Homepage | June 4, 2005, 8:26 am | #

Sue

I think they are more commonly known as just "springs".

Love the site thanks for all the enjoyment you give us.

Regards
David B
NB "Rallentando"
David Bridle | June 4, 2005, 10:31 am | #

To David B

I knew them as springs as well, but I guessed that the Narrow Boat world may have invented another name for them...

I learned the name, and what they did, off a trawlerman here in sunny Weymouth.
F O R | Homepage | June 4, 2005, 6:25 pm | #

Sue,
Just got back and read your blog, now Springs is the word, E indoors as his seamanship Manual, page 147, any spring which prevents the boat from moving back (aft) is known as a back spring, and one that prevents a boat from moving forward(ahead) is known as a head spring, when a boat is secured alongside, the head and back springspreventher from urging ahead or astern at her berth, and together hey assist the breast ropes to keep her close alongside. Thats for others that don't know, not you Sue.tee-hee
pat bycroft | June 4, 2005, 11:44 pm | #