no it's not necessary but some claim that you get a bit better connection out of it.
I just use them out of the box and give them a good cleanout with some electric motor cleaner after a few hours of use.

I live on the gulf coast and I'm looking for an entry level position on a tugboat. I will be applying for a twic card this week but I'm a little in the dark about the correct process of obtaining further credentials to ensure I have a good foot in the door. I have no military experience but have been on a boat for a good bit of my life. If anyone with prior experience can direct me further I would appreciate it. Thank you

I want to solo circumnavigate the world, but I don't know what kind of boat to buy. I was looking at a seidelman 37. Would that be a good boat to bring? Also, are there any web sites to help plan and pack for this adventure?

from what you have said , the rope is at a constant velocity though a winch. It is therefore not being stowed on a drum end which would increase the diameter and thus speed.

The boat does not approach at a greater speed as it approaches the dock, it just appears to do so. All about relative motion. Why does an aeroplane flying at 36,000 feet appear to go much slower than one flying at the same speed but at 1,000 feet. Relative motion.