Gordon wrote:
Lot of talk here lately about regs and rules so thought I would post
this tidbit I stumbled across

New Reels Catch Fish So Purchase Some - or NRCFSPS. 1) Nuc (Not Under
Command). 2) Ram (Restricted In Ability To Maneuver). 3) Cbd
(Constrained By Draft). 4) Fishing. (Commercial only, all types except
trolling). 5) Sailing. 6) Powerboat. 7) Seaplane. For details, refer to
the bible: USCG Navigation Rules COMDTINST M16672.2C.

I learned it with one addition:

New Reels Catch Fish So Purchase Some OFTEN

where "Overtaking" occupies slot 8 in the pecking order.

Whenever this is discussed I feel compelled to point out two things.
First, there is no order in the rules between NUC and RAM, they are
"tied" for first place. One must remember that a NUC is not totally
disabled, it is only unable to fully comply with the rules. Further, a
RAM may in fact be completely unable to move. An example might be the a
NUC with a faulty transmission but able to steer should keep clear of a
dredge that is completely unable to move.

The other point is more subtle. In most of the relationships, such as
between sail and powerboats, there is a Give Way and a Stand On vessel,
where the Give Way must "keep out the the way" of the Stand On. But
in the case of a CBD (and in the related Narrow Channel rules) the
burdened vessel must only "not impede" the other. The distinction is
often explained as the Stand On vessel should not have to alter speed or
course (in fact, Rule 17 requires that she not alter speed or course),
while a vessel not impeding only means that you must give the CBD vessel
a reasonable path. The reason why this distinction is important is that
both relationships may be in force. That is, a Sailboat may be Stand
On to a CBD that it must not impede.

Of course, one shouldn't assume everyone fully appreciates these points!