Re: [Paddlewise] Israeli kayakers rescued in Alaska (USCG video)

On Mon, Aug 3, 2009 at 9:35 AM, Dave Kruger <kdruger_at_pacifier.com> wrote:

>
>
>> BTW, this was referred to by the USCG as a "Good Samaritan" vessel. Is
>> this a certain legal status of a vessel coming to the rescue, or does it
>> simply mean that a crew of good will has decided to lend a helping hand.
>>
>
> Josh, that term simply refers to the vessel's role in the rescue:  no
> reimbursement is expected or asked for.


The difference between "rescue" and "salvage" is an interesting one; and
strewn with pitfalls. If the fishing vessel took the kayaks and the paddlers
aboard it would probably be, legally speaking, a salvage operation instead
of a straight rescue. The difference depends on the details. The fishing
boat will almost certainly be out significant money unless they were at the
end of their trip and headed back to offload fish and refuel and only had to
detour a few miles to effect the rescue. I agree with Dave to cut them a
check for $2k and call it good. They could probably legally impound the
kayaks if they wanted.

Craig Jungers
Moses Lake, WA
www.nwkayaking.net
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