Below the waterline

I had a rather gossipy lunch which meant I had to dash out for today's blip. So off to the Chichester Canal for inspiration. The canal barges are still undergoing their annual makeover.

I don't know what this does - its below the waterline, near the front of the barge. This "tube" is at right angles to the bow and I'm confused by the propellor which is half way in. Is it used to help the barge turn? I don't know....

I find this image rather creepy - it smacks of Silence of the Lambs... What do you think?