Commercial operators/courtesy

[sailingharry]

So what is up with completely inconsiderate commercial operators?

We have been out on the water now for a couple of weeks. I have had several conversations with tugs and tows, sometimes very friendly and useful. Sometimes, no response.

Right now, I am moving very slowly dead downwind at 4 knots. I've been watching a tug pushing a barge coming right up my track for the last hour. With CPA now at half an hour, and with him a mile behind me, I attempted to hail him on channel 13. Complete and total silence. As the lead vessel, I am stand on. But I would just as soon collaborate with him.

Since I cannot readily determine what side he intends to go on, changing course on my own would just lead to confusion. A 30-second radio conversation to agree would be helpful for both parties.

I will simply stand on. If CPA becomes too close and too soon, I will start my engine, make a 90° course change and get out of the way. Not a nice way to play the game.

[John_Trusty]

Par for the course, particularly on the US Intercoastal Waterway. Some of the crews are the nicest neighbors and some appear to either dislike or ignore recreational boats. To you, it’s a frightening encounter with a huge vessel; to them, it’s Thursday at work. They got a lot going on with figuring their next turn or bridge a mile away, dealing with record keeping, arguing with their boss about leave, going to the head or lunch ... and here’s some amateur on the radio wanting to chat. Not saying you shouldn’t call, as professionally and briefly as you can. Just don’t take it personally if they don’t answer.

Happened to me this morning coming into an inlet at sunrise and met a RAM dredge crossing me. I was clearly burdened, but called to ask what their intentions were. In the end, I just idled and waited outside until the did their business.

[deblen]

COLREGS depend on "gentlemanly" cooperation.
Captains may be officers,but not necessarily "gentlemen".


Stand on.
Cheers/Len

[keepondancin]

Big Boat Rule

[rslifkin]

It's not a size issue, as I see it the worst with charter fishing captains (who are often on boats smaller than mine). A few too many unfortunately take the attitude of "I'm getting paid so get out of my way". I called one out via VHF for passing within 200 feet of me on plane while I was anchored and the response I got was "you had plenty of space, get over it."

[Uricanejack]

So presume you are in a narrow channel somewhere.

If you are where you should be, The right side of the road, it won't be a problem if you are right in the middle it might be.
Haul over to STRB if you can you might and get a friendly wave with all 5 fingers.
Or haul over to port if its more convenient and you are not bothering anyone else.

If not and you prefer stick to your guns and sail down the middle. So be it. you can be P'd off when he passes real close.

Personally I find making my intentions clear and not impeding works quite well.
And keeps everyone happy.