Capt. Neal® wrote:
The stern light would interfere with the vision of the operator of the
tug so it
is logical to not have a stern light.

I say any tow that is alongside but has its bow ahead of the tug is
being pushed
ahead.

wrong.

This is were the confusion comes in. Towed alongside to me means
a hip
tow and a hip tow is where the bow of the tug is further forward in the
combination.

wrong, but all things considered, it's understandable that you wouldn't
know better.

otn