"Bob" wrote in message
oups.com...
Hi Skip:
Since you are a vessel 12 meters (39' 3") you are required to carry a
copy of the COLREGS. Do you hvae one?
Since you do please read RULE 5
Ive copied from http://www.boats.com/reeds/jsp/rn_ch_1_i_b.jsp#a9
below:
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"Rule 5 Lookout
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a PROPER LOOKOUT BY SIGHT AND
HEARING AS WELL AS BY ALL AVAILABLE MEANS appropriate in the
prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal
of the situation and of the risk of collision.
Rule 5
This is a basic Rule, the violation of which is so often the cause of
small-craft accidents - collisions with other boats or stationary
objects. On smaller vessels, the "lookout" is nominally the helmsman,
and this is acceptable if he is aware of his responsibility and
performs his duties. He must be able to hear as well as see potential
dangers. If in doubt, a skipper should post an additional person with
the sole duties of lookout; this is particularly necessary in
situations of reduced visibility. It is even possible that two
lookouts will be necessary - one forward and one aft. Should a
collision occur, failure to have a proper lookout would be strongly
held against you in court.
This is also the Rule that is obviously violated by all single-handing
skippers on long voyages, or even on voyages of more than a few hours.
Note that the Rule states that a lookout is required "at all times" -
this includes when a vessel is at anchor."
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Sitting at the nav station typing 500 word posts and looking at a
RADAR screen every 15 min violates COLREG RULE 5. Get out of the
office and sail your boat!
Bob
One correction, Bob, but don't feel badly because you're not the only
one confused by it. Jeff, who posts here regularly, also misunderstands
this rule but he's otherwise got them down pat.
Rule 5 comes under Part B, "Steering and Sailing Rules" meaning rules
for vessels steering and sailing, in other words vessels underway.
Underway vessels do not include anchored vessels which, unless they're
dragging, they're not underway nor are they steering or sailing.
Good luck in your effort to educate Skippy. I doubt it takes, though.
Wilbur Hubbard