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From: Dave J (no email)
Date: Tue Jun 19 2007 - 13:30:19 EDT
Well as I read the article all they're asking is that boat operators:
1. pass some kind of proficiency test (like we already do to hold a
driver's license), and
2. carry a government issued ID (like we do when driving a car).
No BIG DEAL. It's already that way in some states as well as in our
neighbor to the North, Canada.
I personally don't see what the problem here is.
As sailors, 90% or more of us already know how to navigate, the rights of
the road, and basic boating safety and law (which is more than I can say for
the majority of the powerboaters - in the waters where I sail anyway).
A basic prof test should be no big deal. It should improve the safety of
all of the rest of us on the water by causing some of those yahoos to get a
bit educated as to right of way, rules of the road, basic navigational buoy
markings, requirements for life jackets, other safety aboard items, etc,
Although my state doesn't offer a boat operators license or permit - ~yet~
(I think we were the last to require automobile driver's licenses), I hold
a Canadian Boat Operators Permit so I can legally sail up there. It was
a fairly short test and I only missed the two questions that dealt with what
government "ministry" to which one reports boating accidents. Naturally a
bit different up there than down here in that respect.
BTW I was told that they simply copied one of our Eastern state's boating
permit tests and subbed in their government offices.
-----------------------------------------------
Al that aside, anybody know where I can get a waterproof AIS for an
inflatable kayak, just in case? (grin)
Dave J
S/V StarShine
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----- Original Message -----
From: "Carl Bostek" <>
>
> Never underestimate the ability of a "security" program to create more
bureaucracy. Plan on
> installing an AIS transponder on your dinghy!
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