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On 27 Jun 2005 17:16:40 -0700, wrote:
There seems to be an idea among many boaters that the rules of the road
forbid another boat from being in their way, from inducing them to turn
or (God forbid!) to slow down. That ain't the case *at all*.
In the case mentioned by the original poster, a tourist boat coming over
to the left side of the channel to watch wildlife, is totally kosher
*if* the maneuver presented no imminent danger of collision.
Since the original poster did not mention such things as slamming into
reverse, putting the helm hard over, and narrowly avoiding collisions, I
assumed that none of these things took place and that he was upset
because another boat was on what he thought was 'his side.' Hence my
statement that the water doesn't have little yellow lines on it like a road.
I cant remember the exact speeds but i was probably going 15-25 miles.
The other boat was doing a good 30+ miles (so i estimate. They are
quick).
I was as much on the side of the channel (driving out to the sea from
the harbor) as you can be.
When he crossed and went on a collision course with my boat I had about
5-10 seconds to turn away or he would have mowed me down.
If there is no law against crossing channels and purposely going on
collision course at high speeds with other boats for no particular
reason, then it should be. And i am no one who wants laws more than
necessary.
Don't say there isn't a law - he clearly was in the wrong - we're not
suggesting anything other wise. We were just arguing some fine points
in the Collision Regulations that govern how these incidents are
investigated and in the assigning of blame.
You cannot directly place your vessel in direct harm to you or others
by abrupt changes of direction or speed.
Clearly, he either didn't see you, or he abused his status as the
larger vessel.
Fortunately, you did the right thing.
By the way, in this case, Rule 15, Crossing Situation applied to this
as I understand you which clearly places the burden on him.
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