So, it finally happened. I had to bite the bullet and call Sea Tow. I think I could fixed my issue (a fuel filter problem) but my daughter was on board with our grandkids (one who is 10 months) so rather than bob around just outside our busy channel, while I putter around on the engine, we called the cavalry.
A few observations; the Sea Tow folks could not have been nicer. They ensured everyone on board was safe and had PFDs on (they already did) and that we were safely anchored (we were) and gave us an update on when they would arrive. It was barely a half hour wait and the captain of the tow boat was outstanding. He had us back in our slip in no time.
Now, the bad, folks, a tow boat with a vessel in tow, is a vessel with restricted movement and has right of way even over a vessel under sail. I was dismayed to see how many skippers do not understand this basic rule of road. I expect the smaller power boats to be clueless but there were a number of 30' plus sailboats just as clueless.
After being the boat being towed I truly understood just how restricted this captain's boat's movement were. So please, if you see a boat being towed give the poor Sea Tow or Tow Boat guy a break and plenty of room. Don't try to race in front of him while under sail.
Okay, rant over. Now on to that fuel filter..........
A few observations; the Sea Tow folks could not have been nicer. They ensured everyone on board was safe and had PFDs on (they already did) and that we were safely anchored (we were) and gave us an update on when they would arrive. It was barely a half hour wait and the captain of the tow boat was outstanding. He had us back in our slip in no time.
Now, the bad, folks, a tow boat with a vessel in tow, is a vessel with restricted movement and has right of way even over a vessel under sail. I was dismayed to see how many skippers do not understand this basic rule of road. I expect the smaller power boats to be clueless but there were a number of 30' plus sailboats just as clueless.
After being the boat being towed I truly understood just how restricted this captain's boat's movement were. So please, if you see a boat being towed give the poor Sea Tow or Tow Boat guy a break and plenty of room. Don't try to race in front of him while under sail.
Okay, rant over. Now on to that fuel filter..........