This strategy provides a wider track or channel for the ship when it backs before ramming again. The strongest part of the ship is the bow. The strength not only results from the ship's plating but the framing of the bow. The weakest part of the ship is the stern due to the propellers. If they are turned and not parallel with the centerline, then they could potentially break if they strike ice.
Heavy snow renders the ship less capable and consequently slows it down.
Water spouts from each side of the bow to wash the snow off the ice and to provide a liquid lubricant to the sides of the ship. This system reduces the friction of the snow against the ship and lessens the resistance. It facilitates the ship's forward movement over the ice. In addition to the Bow Wash System, the Healy has a specialized slick black non-porous coating on the bottom of the ship that has the effect of Teflon. The Healy has responsive engines, good maneuverability, easy to operate controls, excellent visibility from the aloft conning station, and is efficiently and smartly designed.