Sharing the water alongside commercial vessels
What are commercial vessels?
Commercial relates to vessels that are primarily operating for profit, normally with paying passengers. A commercial vessel is also considered a non-pleasure craft. Commercial vessels are business operated and include vessels managed by federal, provincial and municipal departments and agencies.
What action must be taken by recreational vessels when meeting a large ship?
If at all possible, stay out of areas where there is commercial vessel traffic such as shipping lanes or traffic separation zones. Large ships and barges have special problems in maneuvering and cannot and will not get out of your way.
Sharing the Water with Commercial Vessels
What should you do while sharing public waterways with others?
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Avoid ship channels. If you must cross, do so at right angles and as quickly as possible.
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Be alert. Watch for traffic.
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Be seen, especially at night.
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Know the sound signals, especially the danger or doubt signal.
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Keep your VHF radio tuned to channel 16 and listen carefully.
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Order all aboard to wear PFDs.
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Be familiar with the area and have current navigation charts.
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Don’t be a non-survivor of a collision with a large ship.
