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Re: Watson threatens to ram Jap whalers.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Americano
When operating a vessel under sail, you must give way to:
Any vessel not under command
Any vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver
A vessel engaged in commercial fishing
Any blue water sailor knows that despite international maritime law all motorized vessels feel they own the oceans and will use the limited ability to maneuver rule to maintain course. Fishing vessels, fishing or not, are by far the worst offenders. A factory trawler, container ship or super-tanker that needs 5-miles to turn has far reaching radar that can easily 'see' a dingy at 50-miles but any sailing vessel captain knows they won't change course for a sailboat trimmed for a long reach, even when their navigation system can plot a collision course in a matter of seconds. All you'll hear is the horn (if the helmsman happens to be awake as they set the radar alert for large masses).
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Yup. I hear five blasts and know that means, "Get the hell out of my way; I'm soooooo much bigger than you and that's all that matters to me".
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I am an American. That's the way most of us put it, just matter of factly. They are plain words, those four: you could write them on your thumbnail, or sweep them clear across this bright autumn sky. But remember too, that they are more than just words. They are a way of life. So whenever you speak them; speak them firmly, speak them proudly, speak them gratefully. I am an American. ...a tradition
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