laying still in the water, such as a boat
Our ship was mysteriously becalmed for 3 days and 3 nights.
In an area that was known as the Doldrums
In the Sargasso Sea, around the Carribean.
After so many days of stormy weather, Jeff was glad that his sailing ship was becalmed for a while, so he could drop his sails, rest and not fight to make progress across the Pacific ocean.
Becalmed
When an old sailing ship was becalmed the crew had to break out the ships boats and row, towing the ship. As oars were often made of ash this is sailing by ash breeze
"Becalmed" refers to a state in which a ship is unable to move due to a lack of wind. This term can also describe a situation where someone feels stuck or inactive, often due to external circumstances. In a broader context, it can symbolize a moment of stillness or stagnation in life or progress.
To render motionless for lack of wind: “Across the harbor, a small sailing skiff, becalmed near some reeds, caught the breeze again” (Horace Freeland Judson). To make calm or still; soothe.
Ships often become becalmed in areas known as "doldrums," particularly around the equator. This region is characterized by light winds and unpredictable weather patterns due to the convergence of trade winds from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. As a result, vessels can find themselves stranded without sufficient wind to propel them, leading to delays in their journeys. Other areas prone to becoming becalmed include the Horse Latitudes, located at approximately 30 degrees north and south of the equator.
A steam engine on a ship meant that the vessel could sail against the wind. Nor would lack of a wind mean the vessel would risk becoming becalmed - a problem often faced by sailing ships.
pull it when wind comes
The duration of towing a becalmed ship can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the distance to be covered, the conditions at sea, and the speed of the towing vessel. Typically, towing operations may take anywhere from a few hours to several days. Specific instances would depend on the circumstances surrounding the ship and the resources available for the towing operation.