400' ships have status over a sailing vessel in a restricted situation. I
don't know about the Great Lakes, but I've been in an overtaking situation
with a tanker in the Pacific Ocean. Being prudent, when we spotted her
coming up on the stern, we made ready to change course. However, the tanker
changed course and went around us, as they should according to the rules.

You're right, just because you have rights doesn't mean being foolish.
However, they're not following the rules and should be contacted. What's
wrong with hailing them? I don't think this has anything to do with being a
rich or ugly American. I'm sure the CG wouldn't be averse to reminding them
of their obligations.

--
"j" ganz @@
www.sailnow.com

"Denny" wrote in message
oups.com...
Having sailed the Great Lakes for some 60 years I have had ample
experience with the solid stream of freighters... They don't turn,
period... Usually there is not even anyone visible in the bridge
windows...
I long ago developed the attitude that I will immediately turn away as
soon as I see a converging track developing... I am not burning
hundreds of dollars an hour of fuel... I can turn on a dime... I like
tacking... I am sailing for pleasure... Being ground up underneath a
400 foot cement hauler is not my idea of pleasure...
And, likely the person on the bridge (if any) does not speak english
and doesn't particularily like 'rich', 'ugly americans'... Just a fact
of life for a yachtsman... Just because you think the Colregs say you
don't have to turn, doesn't mean you shouldn't...
If I were pulling a fish net or dredging, I would ignore the big guy
and let him make the quivering explanations in the Admiralty Court as
to why he ran someone down... I'm not, so I give way...

denny