Slip Renters and GSL Marina Users Posted 6-18-07 Restricted Vessel in her ability to maneuver Please Remember during these low water years that not only is the marina mouth shallow but it is also very narrow. It is a tight squeeze for two boats to be in the mouth at the same time. It has come to our attention that there seems to be confusion on Right of Way rules and rules regarding Restricted Vessel in her Ability to Maneuver. Recently, both Island Serenade and Rescue One have had close calls or potentially dangerous encounters with other vessels in the marina area. Navigation Rules, Rule 3(g) defines the term "Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver, means a vessel which from the nature of her work is restricted in her ability to maneuver as required by these Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of another vessel". This rule includes Island Serenade, Rescue One and Rescue Four while towing another vessel, or any other vessel that is towing another vessel. This not only includes the marina mouth, but the whole of the marina and the whole of the Deep Channel area. An important note: Rule 3(a) defines the term vessel. The word 'Vessel' includes every description of watercraft, including non-displacement craft and seaplanes, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water. Following are some important Navigation Rules; Inland Rule 9(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters (65') in length shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway. Inland Rule 9(d) A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such crossing impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within that channel or fairway. The latter vessel shall use the danger signal prescribed in Rule 34(d), if in doubt as to the intention of the crossing vessel. Inland Rule 9(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area a narrow channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall navigate with particular alertness and caution and shall sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(c). Inland Rule 10(j) A vessel of less than 20 meters or a sailing vessel shall not impede the safe passage of a power driven vessel following a traffic lane. Inland Rule 18(a)(ii) A power driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver. Inland Rule 18(b)(ii) A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way of a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver. Inland Rule 34(3) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall sound one prolonged blast. Inland Rule 34(g) When a power-driven vessel is leaving a dock or berth, she shall sound one prolonged blast. In accordance with Rule 35, as "Vessels restricted in her ability to maneuver or engaged in towing", Island Serenade, Rescue One and Rescue Four (while towing another vessel) will sound one long horn blast followed by two short blasts prior to entering the marina mouth. Remember "Vessel" includes all craft whether sail, kayak, canoe, sculling shell, etc. All vessels are required to "give way" to vessels restricted in her ability to maneuver. This includes the whole marina, marina mouth and Deep Channel Buoys.