Comments interspersed:

Simple Simon wrote:
Capt. Otn,

It appears to me Joe is saying if it's a commercial
venture and not recreational boating then it's OK
to proceed in an unsafe manner while ignoring or
bending the Rules of the Road as applicable to
restricted visibility. It appears to me that you are
agreeing with him.

I can't speak for Joe, only the conditions.
First off, read rule 6 again. Each operator must consider a safe speed
under ANY conditions of visibility, the maneuverability of the
particular vessel, the navigation equipment, etc..
For you, in your vessel, in fog, to proceed at 6k, would be excessive
speed. You have no radar, and thusly, no way to closely monitor and be
aware of traffic within your area, and with your small outboard, a crash
stop will probably take a couple of boat lengths. Add to this, that you
are rarely underway, except on some weekends for a few hours and may or
may not be traveling familiar routes.
Now, let's take the "Joe's" of the world. They're running day in and day
out, on the same routes, in all conditions, and are highly familiar with
radar and what they see on it .... to them, the only difference between
a clear day and a foggy day, is how they get their visual input as to
where they are and where they're going, and their boats can stop in a
boat length or less (especially if they've slowed down for something
they're not sure of).

Are they breaking the rules? G In some cases yes. In some cases maybe,
and in some cases, not really (won't say "no", because that doesn't
exist). Do I condone this type of operation? ..... only if they make it
through their entire career, without an accident......Try to understand
this, Neal .... this paragraph applies to me as well as all others.

Appearances are sometimes misleading so I will
give you the benefit of the doubt because no
self-respecting, law abiding, USCG licensed Master
would knowingly and proudly claim he either ignores
or breaks specific COLREGS in the name of commerce.

I break specific COLREGS all the time. Rule 2, allows me to do this and
says that I will, if conditions warrant. The difference is, I try to
obey the COLREGS, whenever possible .... it's not always possible.


The COLREGS apply to all vessels - there is no
distinction between commercial vessels and private
vessels when it comes to operating in restricted
visibility and to claim going 25 knots in restricted
visibility in congested areas like the lower Mississippi
and Gulf of Mexico is a safe and normal practice is
to show ignorance of the law and a disregard for
safety of life at sea. While you aren't saying this
directly your agreeing with one who IS does not
bode well for your common sense, education or
professionalism.

G The vast majority of traffic in the lower Miss. is commercial, and
it's generally not all that congested, except to an amateur, such as
yourself. If you paid attention to the radio traffic in that area, you'd
know that all these vessels are in frequent and constant radio
communication with each other, for "passing situations", be it clear or
restricted visibility.
These people are NOT showing ignorance of the law, OR a disregard for
safety of life at sea. What they ARE doing, is operating at a level,
which FAR exceeds your understanding and abilities AND license
qualifications.
As per usual, Neal, you are trying to discuss a subject, on a level that
you have no chance of attaining, and even less, understanding.

otn