"Jeff Morris" wrote in message
A year ago I was frustrated when a tug with a barge on a long wire altered
course for me, as required by the rules. I, however, was quite willing to
go behind him but was waiting for a minute to get a bit closer. We were
still a few miles apart when he changed course, which probably cost him
more fuel than I use in a year.

Why didn't you just hail him on VHF and confirm ??......

When in Halifax Harbour and faced with large ship traffic I simply inform
Halifax Radio of my course and speed and request they inform traffic and
forward me any course changes required so as not to impede large vessel
traffic. Works like a charm and keeps me out of harm's way.

When not in the traffic lanes I generally place a hail with my course and
speed if I see a large vessel approaching. If I don't get a reply I make a
radical course change and repeat the hail with the new info. I'm not going
to ever contest right of way with a much larger vessel... it's not safe and
not polite. These guys are working.... I'm kickin' back and sailing.

CM