Re: [Paddlewise] Kayaks and Visibility

On Wed, Jun 24, 2009 at 9:59 AM, Paul Hayward <pdh_at_mmcl.co.nz> wrote:

Nicely done, Paul.

>
> NZ: National Maritime Rules also specify an identical kayak-lighting
> requirement. Last year, a local Auckland bylaw was introduced to make all
> kayaks carry a permanent 2nm all-round white light _AND_ a torch/lantern.
> As
> this is a pretty terrible idea in a kayak group relying on night-vision, we
> are working to have this fixed.


Not to mention that a sailboat skipper would expect the kayak to be the
"give way" vessel under all conditions; even when the kayaker has the
obligation to stand on.

Canada: Sailboats & oars get away with the Int.ColRegs wording. However,
> Canada is tough on small powerboats - the single white light possibility is
> forbidden - the full R-G-S are required. Also, every light (or whistle,
> radar-reflector, etc) that you are required to have on board must have a
> label (or you must carry a certificate) to prove that is certified.


I really don't have a problem with r-g-s nav lights on most powerboats but
the outboard-powered fishing skiff (all open) might be difficult to fit with
nag lights. I'd prefer to see a single R-G-S combined light on a staff.

Certificates must be what keeps 'em employed. :)

Note that the Int.ColRegs don't anywhere mention vessels with paddles - we
> all just assume that "under oars" includes kayaks. There's a FAQ for the US
> Rules (but not the rules themselves), which lumps canoes & kayaks into the
> 'vessel under oars' category - which is all I can find anywhere - but not
> all that helpful ;-)
>

Seems to me that a paddle most closely conforms to the definition of an
"oar"; especially when contrasted with "sail" and "engine".

Thanks for the clarification. So how do individual local jurisdictions
manage to enforce navigational rules which are at odds with the
International Rules? No one bothers to tell them that they aren't supposed
to do that? Or are there loopholes?


Craig Jungers
Moses Lake, WA
www.nwkayaking.net
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