Surfski Knowledge Base

Reivers Dustin
03/02/11 #10173

I've heard some mention that human-powered boats have right-of-way. This is not the case. Basically, since there are no lanes or markings, you are required to avoid collisions while generally observing the following (posted on the 'surfski' yahoogroup):

Michael Gregory
03/02/11 #10175

Check this out in any Seamanship text, Chapmans is a standard reference, and you find excellent discussion of navigation rules. Despite the business about no lanes etc there is a systematic set of guidelines that have been established in hopes of avoiding carnage on the water. And, non motorized craft do have “right of way” in that system. What this boils down to is that motorized craft need to give way to non-motorized craft. That is the motor craft (burdened vessel) needs to alter course, if collision with a non motor craft is eminent.

This is not to say that the sailboat/kayak/rowboat needn't try to avoid collision, of course they should. But non-motorized craft are more limited in maneuverability than the motor guys. So, the motor boat has the burden of avoiding the collision.

Now, we may find that various groups or individuals try to obfuscate the above to their own ends (surprise!). But the navigation guidelines are there. Problem is that there is no requirement that boaters need to know port from starboard much less navigation guidelines.

Regards, Mike.

Reivers Dustin 03/03/11 #10179

great counterpoint, MG. For those who can't find their Chapmans, can you give a citation? I've heard the principle 'most manuverable must yield', but yielding isn't a clear thing (i.e. mast abeam, starboard tack, avoid the area, etc.)

lori & beau whitehead
03/03/11 #10182

Is it true that motor vessels are also responsible for their wakes? Someone told me that, but have not been able to find it in writing.

Beau Whitehead

Ray Fusco
03/03/11 #10183

Interesting conversations about this. Chapman Pilot is a world class reference and everyone on this list should take the local state safe boating course to learn more about other boaters and the navigation rules.

Ultimately this comes down to the letter of the law and the spirit of the law. Inside designated narrow navigable channels, deep draft vessels are the stand on vessel and they have the right of way under USCG Federal navigation rules. From the spirit of the law it is because there is no where for them to go. Non motorized craft have to yield to these stand on vessels. In open water and other areas non motorized vessels have the right of way. Interestingly enough in the event of a collision the professional mariner(usually Capt) is escorted off the vessel, temporarily revoked his/her license and forced to take a drug/alcohol test immediately. They are no longer able to work until the investigation is concluded.

Stay safe and have fun and watch out for big boats ;)

Ray Fusco

03/03/11 #10184

yes, all vessels are responsible for their wakes and any damage caused. Proving fault and winning this one is a tough battle.

Ray Fusco