What is the purpose of tricing pendants on a lifeboat?

The purpose of tricing pendants on a lifeboat is to hold the lifeboat next to the embarkation deck while loading. These pendants are essential during the boarding process as they ensure that the lifeboat remains in an accessible position for passengers and crew to board safely. By securing the lifeboat in close proximity to the embarkation deck, tricing pendants facilitate a controlled and successful loading operation, minimizing the risk of accidents or spills that could occur if the lifeboat swings away from the embarkation point.

Tricing pendants play a crucial role in ensuring stability and safety during the loading process, but they are not primarily designed for securing the boat to the dock or launching assistance. Additionally, while stability in heavy seas is important for lifeboats in general, tricing pendants are specifically used to manage the boat’s position relative to the deck during loading, not for stabilizing it in rough water conditions.