Re: [Paddlewise] Right of Way

> Date: Thu, 8 Jul 1999 13:28:17 -0700 (PDT)
> From: Julio MacWilliams <juliom_at_cisco.com>
> Subject: [Paddlewise] defining manoeuvrability
>
> to the right of way in California--the most manoeuvrable vessel gives way.
>
> So what is manoeuvrability?  Is it the ability to turn 360 degrees in
> the least amount of time? Or the ability to turn 180 degress and move
> from point A to point B behind in the shortest time?
>
> A kayak can turn around itself quicker than a fishing boat, but
> a kayak does not have the power to get out of the way of a freighter
> as fast as a fishing boat could.
>
> Does anyone have a good answer for this one?
>
> - - Julio
>
> ------------------------------
Julio,

I think it was Ralph Diaz who came up with the best answer that I have seen
concerning right away and I have adopted his response as the method I use to
determine Right of Way.

Ralph said he uses the Rule of Gross Tonnage - if it's bigger than your
kayak---it has the right of way.

According to the Coast Guard people that I have spoken with, the freighter
will have the Right of Way while it is in a marked (this can mean marked
only on a chart) navigation channel. At this time, anything a kayaker does
that causes the freighter to change course or speed is infringing on the
freighter's Right of Way and carries HEAVY fines for the kayaker.

If the two craft are in the open ocean than the vessel that is being
overtaken has the right of way. Otherwise, nobody has it.

Hope this is of some help.

Steve


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