Over the years, the role of the United States Coast Guard has changed. Now a part of the Department of Homeland Security and having major responsibilities in the war on terrorism, the multiple missions of this service have further stretched its already thin resources. Not too many years ago, the Coast Guard would respond to any and all on-the-water emergencies as defined by the skipper calling for assistance. Nowadays, the Coast Guard may only send out a rescue boat when they determine that life is in immediate danger. What has been your experience with the U.S. Coast Guard? Have you ever been boarded by them? If so, what was the reason and outcome? Have you ever had an emergency that required Coast Guard response? Have you monitored a VHF transmission between the Coast Guard and a fellow boater in trouble? Is so, were you able to offer your assistance? Does the current role of the Coast Guard meet your needs? Do you think its role should be expanded? If so, in what ways? Tell us how you think about the U.S. Coast Guard then take the Quick Quiz on the home page. (Quiz by Warren Milberg)
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Brief experience
My only personal experience with the Coast Gaurd was over 25 years ago, when one of their harbor boats pulled along side and had us heave to for a safety equipment inspection. They were courteous and efficient, and I actually appreciated their diligence. The CG has a major presence in my area, and perform many rescues. Like many other government services, they are faced with reduced funding and increased responsibility. Periodically, they have to review their responsibilities and duties, and possibly reduce their services in some areas. While it was nice years ago for a boater to know that if he got into trouble, or suffered equipment failure, he could rely on the CG for a free tow home, it just isn't possible any more, especially with the huge increase in recreational boaters in my area. Personally, I'd prefer to be comfortable knowing that if I have an emergency out on the water, I can count on a quick response from the CG, rather than possibly having to wait who knows how long because their last resource is tied up towing in somebody who sheared a propeller pin and didn't have a spare. My $.02 worth... Jack
My only personal experience with the Coast Gaurd was over 25 years ago, when one of their harbor boats pulled along side and had us heave to for a safety equipment inspection. They were courteous and efficient, and I actually appreciated their diligence. The CG has a major presence in my area, and perform many rescues. Like many other government services, they are faced with reduced funding and increased responsibility. Periodically, they have to review their responsibilities and duties, and possibly reduce their services in some areas. While it was nice years ago for a boater to know that if he got into trouble, or suffered equipment failure, he could rely on the CG for a free tow home, it just isn't possible any more, especially with the huge increase in recreational boaters in my area. Personally, I'd prefer to be comfortable knowing that if I have an emergency out on the water, I can count on a quick response from the CG, rather than possibly having to wait who knows how long because their last resource is tied up towing in somebody who sheared a propeller pin and didn't have a spare. My $.02 worth... Jack
I have no Problem...
...with them reducing their duties and doing the duties that they were intended to do. Towing is now handled by private towers. This took valuable time away from them. They have returned to their true mission. As long as the CG is there when I need them, AND THEY ARE, they are still doing the job that they were created to do. I have called them on occasion to check if the fish nets are deployed near the coast. They usually know. Around the Newport, RI area there are fish nets (gill nets) set up perpendicular to the coastline and are about 1/2 mile out to sea. They have floats strung out supporting the net and a "high flyer" at the end (radar reflector). But to the unknowing boater they can catch the unsuspecting skipper (power or sail) and will ruin your day. It irks me to see an unprepared boater trying to seek their help. The CG has a major presence here in New England. We see in the news when they put to sea many, many times to rescue and help the offshore fishermen at all times of the year. And even the recreational boaters when it is necessary. We owe a lot to them! *5
...with them reducing their duties and doing the duties that they were intended to do. Towing is now handled by private towers. This took valuable time away from them. They have returned to their true mission. As long as the CG is there when I need them, AND THEY ARE, they are still doing the job that they were created to do. I have called them on occasion to check if the fish nets are deployed near the coast. They usually know. Around the Newport, RI area there are fish nets (gill nets) set up perpendicular to the coastline and are about 1/2 mile out to sea. They have floats strung out supporting the net and a "high flyer" at the end (radar reflector). But to the unknowing boater they can catch the unsuspecting skipper (power or sail) and will ruin your day. It irks me to see an unprepared boater trying to seek their help. The CG has a major presence here in New England. We see in the news when they put to sea many, many times to rescue and help the offshore fishermen at all times of the year. And even the recreational boaters when it is necessary. We owe a lot to them! *5
Pulled off a Hard Grounding
Back in 1983-1984 we lived aboard our Coronado 35 with a hefty 5'6" draft. We were ICW - Coastal cruisers. On the ICW between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida we managed to run very hard aground in the narrow channel. Boat US towing and SeaTow did not exist back then, so I called out for assistance on 16 and within 15 minutes a zodiac with two USCG members show up. They were working on inlet markers off a barge-tender in the Ponce inlet. They had no reluctance to lend us a hand and it was quite a time getting that Zodiac zig-zagging around before they got us free. Would the USCG apply the same expeditious response and assistance today in the same situation? Probably not. From what I hear, you must be sinking, wounded, on fire or in some life-threatening situation before they would saddle up and come to your aid. Since that experience back in the 80's, we required help from a grounding near Tampa, several years ago and with the help of a major tow company we got off with no serious damage to our vessel. We were advised that the USCG has more important duties then to get you off a sandbar, unless of course that grounding is a navigational hazard for other vessels. Today you might hear, "contact your local tow assistance provider, skipper". Regards Bob Catalina 30
Back in 1983-1984 we lived aboard our Coronado 35 with a hefty 5'6" draft. We were ICW - Coastal cruisers. On the ICW between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida we managed to run very hard aground in the narrow channel. Boat US towing and SeaTow did not exist back then, so I called out for assistance on 16 and within 15 minutes a zodiac with two USCG members show up. They were working on inlet markers off a barge-tender in the Ponce inlet. They had no reluctance to lend us a hand and it was quite a time getting that Zodiac zig-zagging around before they got us free. Would the USCG apply the same expeditious response and assistance today in the same situation? Probably not. From what I hear, you must be sinking, wounded, on fire or in some life-threatening situation before they would saddle up and come to your aid. Since that experience back in the 80's, we required help from a grounding near Tampa, several years ago and with the help of a major tow company we got off with no serious damage to our vessel. We were advised that the USCG has more important duties then to get you off a sandbar, unless of course that grounding is a navigational hazard for other vessels. Today you might hear, "contact your local tow assistance provider, skipper". Regards Bob Catalina 30
USCG Aux
A recent report about the CG plucking two sailors from a foundering boat off the coast of North Carolina is another reason to appreciate the CG's presence. However, don't forget the USCG Auxiliary. The USCGAux does not perform the spectacular SAR missions that bring the CG to the news, but we are out there. On the Pamlico Sound, the CG Auxiliary is out patroling. We don't do law enforcement duties. The USCGAux is out there to help boaters in need. We are trained to tow and help any way we can within the scope of our mission. Basically, we respond to "Pan Pan" calls from boaters in distress, but normally not life threatening situations. We offer training through boater classes and courtesy vessel safety inspections to mention two of our primary duties. Our presence allows the CG to focus its attention and assets on life saving, drug interdiction, law enforcement and homeland security. Find a USCGAux flotilla in your area and get involved, or show them your support. Request a courtesy vessel safety inspection. That could save your life in itself.
A recent report about the CG plucking two sailors from a foundering boat off the coast of North Carolina is another reason to appreciate the CG's presence. However, don't forget the USCG Auxiliary. The USCGAux does not perform the spectacular SAR missions that bring the CG to the news, but we are out there. On the Pamlico Sound, the CG Auxiliary is out patroling. We don't do law enforcement duties. The USCGAux is out there to help boaters in need. We are trained to tow and help any way we can within the scope of our mission. Basically, we respond to "Pan Pan" calls from boaters in distress, but normally not life threatening situations. We offer training through boater classes and courtesy vessel safety inspections to mention two of our primary duties. Our presence allows the CG to focus its attention and assets on life saving, drug interdiction, law enforcement and homeland security. Find a USCGAux flotilla in your area and get involved, or show them your support. Request a courtesy vessel safety inspection. That could save your life in itself.
Free tow
I was in a old fishing boat off woods hole, taking on water and listing from a leak. We plugged the hole but were too tired to continue pumping, engine seized, bilge pump broke, and anchor was only thing holding us from drifting into the rocks. My buddy pulled in a huge striper while the Coast Guard rafted onto the boat and went through their long check list. I was given a written warning for not having flares, but towed for free to their dock. Our coast guards are well trained, educated, and professional---we're lucky to have them around.
I was in a old fishing boat off woods hole, taking on water and listing from a leak. We plugged the hole but were too tired to continue pumping, engine seized, bilge pump broke, and anchor was only thing holding us from drifting into the rocks. My buddy pulled in a huge striper while the Coast Guard rafted onto the boat and went through their long check list. I was given a written warning for not having flares, but towed for free to their dock. Our coast guards are well trained, educated, and professional---we're lucky to have them around.
Presence is required
My only experience with CG, as a novice with recent experience, was having to call for help when my engine quit in front of a marina with a bridge that couldn't be traversed under sail. They patched me through to the tow service and all was well. As a novice I also don't have a long historical perspective to work from, but frankly the lack of physical presence of the Coast Guard in our area bothers me--it isn't what I expected and I don't see how homeland security is being served if there is no evidence of their vessels patrolling the water s in their district. I don't know how many vessels they have in Long Island Sound or where they are based, but to never see any on the water makes me feel there is no serious attempt to monitor what's happening under their watch. Maybe not their fault given the resources they might have, but it bothers me just the same...
My only experience with CG, as a novice with recent experience, was having to call for help when my engine quit in front of a marina with a bridge that couldn't be traversed under sail. They patched me through to the tow service and all was well. As a novice I also don't have a long historical perspective to work from, but frankly the lack of physical presence of the Coast Guard in our area bothers me--it isn't what I expected and I don't see how homeland security is being served if there is no evidence of their vessels patrolling the water s in their district. I don't know how many vessels they have in Long Island Sound or where they are based, but to never see any on the water makes me feel there is no serious attempt to monitor what's happening under their watch. Maybe not their fault given the resources they might have, but it bothers me just the same...
Canadian Coasr Guard
I wish we would see more of our Coast Guard,we very seldom see them let alone see them doing anything,I tell myself It's because our leading fathers don't seethe need so hence no money for a needed service they are a scarce bunch up here.
I wish we would see more of our Coast Guard,we very seldom see them let alone see them doing anything,I tell myself It's because our leading fathers don't seethe need so hence no money for a needed service they are a scarce bunch up here.
Boarded By USCG
We were hailed in October 2002 by USCG ship "Active". We were 2 miles off the coast from Pacifica, California and on our way to Monterey with a stop in Half Moon Bay. Our boat is a Catalina 400 sloop. Three Coasties boarded us via a high speed RIB after hailing us on the VHF channel 16. They were very courteous and inspected our safety gear, bilge, placards for garbage and oil disposal, the y-valves from both heads positioned to holding tanks, our drivers license's for ID purposes, ship papers and book of Navigation rules. Also wanted to know where we were going and where we had been and home port. We received an excellent report.
We were hailed in October 2002 by USCG ship "Active". We were 2 miles off the coast from Pacifica, California and on our way to Monterey with a stop in Half Moon Bay. Our boat is a Catalina 400 sloop. Three Coasties boarded us via a high speed RIB after hailing us on the VHF channel 16. They were very courteous and inspected our safety gear, bilge, placards for garbage and oil disposal, the y-valves from both heads positioned to holding tanks, our drivers license's for ID purposes, ship papers and book of Navigation rules. Also wanted to know where we were going and where we had been and home port. We received an excellent report.
Goast Guard - worse than no help
Two years ago, my 16' sailboat capsized after a bad jibe in a sudden blow. Eventually, after 6 hours in the water, a tow boat arrived to try and help us. At that time, the Coast Guard finally came barrelling out. They were completely uninterested in our physical condition of hypothermia and kept trying to give us a citation for dumping oil into the water from our motor. As I stood there, dripping, observing the hostile attitude of the Coast Guard person in charge (I can't remember if he was an officer), I tried to tell him that we didn't dump any oil because we didn't have an engine of any kind on the sailboat (a fact that any fool could have seen by simple observation). He kept arguing with me, was not polite in any noticeable way, and treated me like a criminal, when what I needed was a blanket and something hot to drink. Finally, I gave in and took the citation and stuck it in my bathing suit (all I had on except for my life preserver), where it became soggy and self-destructed promptly. I have been a boat captain under sail for 40 odd years and am amazed at this change in attitude: "Guilty until proven innocent." Four years ago, my power boat was damaged when a Coast Guard sailor made it fast to their patrol boat without enough scope and tore the quarter deck cleat and a large chunk of fiberglass out of the starboard quarter of my boat. Goast Guard sailors were once known for their seamanship. My observations have been that that element of their training is completely missing these days. To say that I'm discusted with them would be an understatement.
Two years ago, my 16' sailboat capsized after a bad jibe in a sudden blow. Eventually, after 6 hours in the water, a tow boat arrived to try and help us. At that time, the Coast Guard finally came barrelling out. They were completely uninterested in our physical condition of hypothermia and kept trying to give us a citation for dumping oil into the water from our motor. As I stood there, dripping, observing the hostile attitude of the Coast Guard person in charge (I can't remember if he was an officer), I tried to tell him that we didn't dump any oil because we didn't have an engine of any kind on the sailboat (a fact that any fool could have seen by simple observation). He kept arguing with me, was not polite in any noticeable way, and treated me like a criminal, when what I needed was a blanket and something hot to drink. Finally, I gave in and took the citation and stuck it in my bathing suit (all I had on except for my life preserver), where it became soggy and self-destructed promptly. I have been a boat captain under sail for 40 odd years and am amazed at this change in attitude: "Guilty until proven innocent." Four years ago, my power boat was damaged when a Coast Guard sailor made it fast to their patrol boat without enough scope and tore the quarter deck cleat and a large chunk of fiberglass out of the starboard quarter of my boat. Goast Guard sailors were once known for their seamanship. My observations have been that that element of their training is completely missing these days. To say that I'm discusted with them would be an understatement.
Coast Guard
I have never had a positive relation with the US Coast Guard. I have been boarded many times, for "inspections" they have never found anything wrong. But havig a gun toting kid on my boat going through all my lockers makes me mad. Sometimes it takes us an hour to put everything back. Since they have obviously been observing me for some time I find the questioning stupid. Rex in expensive San Diego
I have never had a positive relation with the US Coast Guard. I have been boarded many times, for "inspections" they have never found anything wrong. But havig a gun toting kid on my boat going through all my lockers makes me mad. Sometimes it takes us an hour to put everything back. Since they have obviously been observing me for some time I find the questioning stupid. Rex in expensive San Diego
S.O.S. Call and response October 2003
Bringing my new (to me) Hunter 33 home from Rochester, we encountered head seas of 4-5 meters. Motoring through the waves for 10 hours at 3 1/2 knots, had us in the middle of Lake Ontario, wet, cold and discouraged. My buddy, Eddy, went below to get a hot cup of coffee, and quickly reappeared at the hatch informing me that we had significant water, 5" above the floorboards. I left the helm on Autopilot and went below, and indeed much water was sloshing around down there. I lifted the bilge hatch and could feel the bilge pump working as it should. We started bailing into the galley sink. After 30 minutes, we seemed no further ahead, so I called MayDay on the VHF. Immediately Canadian Coast Guard group Trento responded, asked for Lat./Long and when they determined I was still in U.S. waters handed me off to U.S. Coast Guard Group Buffalo, who then handed me off to Niagara Falls, at Youngstown. After determining my reason for calling, they despatched a 24ft. inflatable, which reached us in less than 30 minutes. They took my crewman, Eddy, into their heated cabin, and two able seaman boarded the boat to search for obvious, or not so obvious leaks. After a thorough search, they determined that the anchor hatch was full of water, likely leaking into the cabin for hours, and having pumped the boat dry, went forward on a wild, pitching bow, and pumped the anchor locker dry. All this time the wind and seas made moving about on deck very treacherous. They offered a tow to Alcott, N.Y. but I said we could make it on our own. They accompanied us for the 13 miles, 31/2 hours it took us to beat our way to safety. They helped us make fast at the public marina, and then proceeded to inspect the boat for safety. Fortunately, we passed, having redundancies of everything they deemed necessary. I am very impressed with their professionalism, and grateful for their assistance.
Bringing my new (to me) Hunter 33 home from Rochester, we encountered head seas of 4-5 meters. Motoring through the waves for 10 hours at 3 1/2 knots, had us in the middle of Lake Ontario, wet, cold and discouraged. My buddy, Eddy, went below to get a hot cup of coffee, and quickly reappeared at the hatch informing me that we had significant water, 5" above the floorboards. I left the helm on Autopilot and went below, and indeed much water was sloshing around down there. I lifted the bilge hatch and could feel the bilge pump working as it should. We started bailing into the galley sink. After 30 minutes, we seemed no further ahead, so I called MayDay on the VHF. Immediately Canadian Coast Guard group Trento responded, asked for Lat./Long and when they determined I was still in U.S. waters handed me off to U.S. Coast Guard Group Buffalo, who then handed me off to Niagara Falls, at Youngstown. After determining my reason for calling, they despatched a 24ft. inflatable, which reached us in less than 30 minutes. They took my crewman, Eddy, into their heated cabin, and two able seaman boarded the boat to search for obvious, or not so obvious leaks. After a thorough search, they determined that the anchor hatch was full of water, likely leaking into the cabin for hours, and having pumped the boat dry, went forward on a wild, pitching bow, and pumped the anchor locker dry. All this time the wind and seas made moving about on deck very treacherous. They offered a tow to Alcott, N.Y. but I said we could make it on our own. They accompanied us for the 13 miles, 31/2 hours it took us to beat our way to safety. They helped us make fast at the public marina, and then proceeded to inspect the boat for safety. Fortunately, we passed, having redundancies of everything they deemed necessary. I am very impressed with their professionalism, and grateful for their assistance.
Moe
So water was getting into the bilge from the anchor cabin, because of the waves coming over the bow and water going down that little hole where the rode goes? A friend of mine had the same problem once. I think he stuffed a rag into the hole to slow down the water going in. I was under the impression hunters anchor cabin didn't drain into the bilge but had it's own drain off the bow. Now I think I need to check that out on my boat. BTW, would sailing (or motor sailing) the boat have moved it faster and a little more stable?
So water was getting into the bilge from the anchor cabin, because of the waves coming over the bow and water going down that little hole where the rode goes? A friend of mine had the same problem once. I think he stuffed a rag into the hole to slow down the water going in. I was under the impression hunters anchor cabin didn't drain into the bilge but had it's own drain off the bow. Now I think I need to check that out on my boat. BTW, would sailing (or motor sailing) the boat have moved it faster and a little more stable?
Coast Guard Boarding
I was boarded by the Coast Guard about 4 years ago. I was out sailing with friends when an large orange inflatable pulled up beside me. There was no mistaking who these uniformed guys were. They called out and asked if I had ever been boarded by the Coast Guard. At that, I answered, NO. They responded by calling out "Prepare to be Boarded". These gentlemen were quite courteous as they checked my ownership and registration papers, ships systems, blidge and PFD's. All in all it was an interesting experience. When they were finished they disappeared as quickly as they appeared. I feel that if I need them, they will be there. As far as I am concerned, The U.S. Coast Geard are doing a great job.
I was boarded by the Coast Guard about 4 years ago. I was out sailing with friends when an large orange inflatable pulled up beside me. There was no mistaking who these uniformed guys were. They called out and asked if I had ever been boarded by the Coast Guard. At that, I answered, NO. They responded by calling out "Prepare to be Boarded". These gentlemen were quite courteous as they checked my ownership and registration papers, ships systems, blidge and PFD's. All in all it was an interesting experience. When they were finished they disappeared as quickly as they appeared. I feel that if I need them, they will be there. As far as I am concerned, The U.S. Coast Geard are doing a great job.
Important Lesson
Last year a fellow sailor, apparently unclear about Rule 17, ran into the side of my boat. He was full-tilt boogey comming out of the wind in Racoon Straights, and we were Main only, drifting out of the lee of Tiburon Island at about 2 knots. He turned up into us yelling and cursing about having the right of way, which he did, but we were hard over and could not get out of the way. Had he merly held his course no accident would have occured. The sound of splintering fiberglass was unbelievable. After checking to be sure we were not taking on water, I called the Coast Guard on CH16. With all the yelling and screaming in the background, I had no trouble convencing them to come out and mediate our dispute. The Coast Gaurd (Station Golden Gate) were absolutely awesome. They were on scene in less than 30 minutes, they were very proffessional, and they conducted the information exchange without bloodshed. Here is the LESSON. They did a full boarding and inspection of BOTH boats, and they did breathalizer tests on BOTH helmsmen. Thank God for the USCG Auxiliary's free inspection program. And thank God that, MIRACULOUSLY, nobody on my boat had been drinking. My advice? If someone looks like they may be aiming at you, start the motor and get out of the way. Absolutely get the USCG Auxiliary's free inspection done, and be sure you are compliant with the basic safety rules. If you make 'the call' be sure your helmsman is sober. And lastly, cut the Coasties a break. Remmember, they don't usually see us at our best
Last year a fellow sailor, apparently unclear about Rule 17, ran into the side of my boat. He was full-tilt boogey comming out of the wind in Racoon Straights, and we were Main only, drifting out of the lee of Tiburon Island at about 2 knots. He turned up into us yelling and cursing about having the right of way, which he did, but we were hard over and could not get out of the way. Had he merly held his course no accident would have occured. The sound of splintering fiberglass was unbelievable. After checking to be sure we were not taking on water, I called the Coast Guard on CH16. With all the yelling and screaming in the background, I had no trouble convencing them to come out and mediate our dispute. The Coast Gaurd (Station Golden Gate) were absolutely awesome. They were on scene in less than 30 minutes, they were very proffessional, and they conducted the information exchange without bloodshed. Here is the LESSON. They did a full boarding and inspection of BOTH boats, and they did breathalizer tests on BOTH helmsmen. Thank God for the USCG Auxiliary's free inspection program. And thank God that, MIRACULOUSLY, nobody on my boat had been drinking. My advice? If someone looks like they may be aiming at you, start the motor and get out of the way. Absolutely get the USCG Auxiliary's free inspection done, and be sure you are compliant with the basic safety rules. If you make 'the call' be sure your helmsman is sober. And lastly, cut the Coasties a break. Remmember, they don't usually see us at our best
They're the local guys
We are fortunate here that we have a Coast Guard Station right in our harbor. Although I've been lucky not to have had any contact with them as part of any boating "incident," their services are appreciated. We get weather reports from them, attend safe boating classes as part of the auxilliary, and refer to them for any questions or comments about our boat and harbor. It's a good working relationship. Bill on STARGAZER
We are fortunate here that we have a Coast Guard Station right in our harbor. Although I've been lucky not to have had any contact with them as part of any boating "incident," their services are appreciated. We get weather reports from them, attend safe boating classes as part of the auxilliary, and refer to them for any questions or comments about our boat and harbor. It's a good working relationship. Bill on STARGAZER
Professionals when needed
A Brief experience: Single-handing in thunderstorms, bad swells with a 1977 Hunter 27 that was shipping water enough to overwhelm the pumps. Point Lookout on the Chesapeake Bay, week of May 1st, 2005, Mag cse 250 for the Lewisetta, Marina. I was 80% positive I was going to make port; motoring with a jib flogging madly. Was unable to go forward to take it down due to the seas. Was tethered-in and wearing my PFD and harness but couldn't leave the helm or she'd've broached and gotten knocked down. Two small craft had already been lost that day on the bay. The Coast Guard had a busy couple of duty shifts, that's for sure. I called them to give them my hand-held GPS fix and to let them know that I thought I could make port (7 miles away at 3 knots in a headwind) but that the boat was shipping water in rough seas and "just in case I had to push the panic button", I wanted a dialogue established. They acknowledged my transmissions and kept periodic commo with me. Within 25 minutes there was a Maryland State Police helicopter over my right shoulder closing on my position from the Northeast. He orbited me for approximately 30 minutes until a Coast Guard Patrol boat from a CG Station on the Potomac River took-up station approximately 200 yards off my starboard bow. They hovered-off and escorted me to port; which took another 3 hours. With me being very cold, very wet and fatigued, they helped me tie-up at the transient slip that I found for myself at 2:00 in the morning and let me warm-up on their boat for a period. They came aboard and performed an inspection (for which I had no deficiencies noted) and presented me with a citation. All in all, they were a great group of professionals who demonstrated that they were willing to put-it-all-on-the-line to help a fellow boater. I couldn't recommend a better use of my tax dollars than to resource these dedicated life-savers.
A Brief experience: Single-handing in thunderstorms, bad swells with a 1977 Hunter 27 that was shipping water enough to overwhelm the pumps. Point Lookout on the Chesapeake Bay, week of May 1st, 2005, Mag cse 250 for the Lewisetta, Marina. I was 80% positive I was going to make port; motoring with a jib flogging madly. Was unable to go forward to take it down due to the seas. Was tethered-in and wearing my PFD and harness but couldn't leave the helm or she'd've broached and gotten knocked down. Two small craft had already been lost that day on the bay. The Coast Guard had a busy couple of duty shifts, that's for sure. I called them to give them my hand-held GPS fix and to let them know that I thought I could make port (7 miles away at 3 knots in a headwind) but that the boat was shipping water in rough seas and "just in case I had to push the panic button", I wanted a dialogue established. They acknowledged my transmissions and kept periodic commo with me. Within 25 minutes there was a Maryland State Police helicopter over my right shoulder closing on my position from the Northeast. He orbited me for approximately 30 minutes until a Coast Guard Patrol boat from a CG Station on the Potomac River took-up station approximately 200 yards off my starboard bow. They hovered-off and escorted me to port; which took another 3 hours. With me being very cold, very wet and fatigued, they helped me tie-up at the transient slip that I found for myself at 2:00 in the morning and let me warm-up on their boat for a period. They came aboard and performed an inspection (for which I had no deficiencies noted) and presented me with a citation. All in all, they were a great group of professionals who demonstrated that they were willing to put-it-all-on-the-line to help a fellow boater. I couldn't recommend a better use of my tax dollars than to resource these dedicated life-savers.
USCG AUX
About three months after I bought my Helms 30 in 1983, I lost the rudder in a race in the Chesapeake Bay due to electrolisis. It just fell off! I was last in the race and the windy conditions had the bay in a pretty good chop! I needed a tow home, at least seven miles from where I was. I called the Coast Guard. I wasn't taking any water and was in no danger. so They referred me to the USCG AUX. Aabout ten minutes later, I received a call from an AUX vessel who was dispatched to tow me back to port. I gave him my position which was right next to a bouy we had used as a mark in the race. It was also two miles NOrth of a very easy to see light house in the Southern Bay. When I asked him for his position, he was seven miles from me making fifteen knots, so I expected him to arrive in about thirty minutes. Thirty minutes later, we haven't even seen his boat! I called him and inquired about his position again. He said he was on his way to the position I had given him. To make a long story short, instead of taking a course that would bring him to us, he whet up the shore line missing us by about four miles and went seven miles north of us. Then he called to tell me we were not at the bouy we said we were! (I was still looking at it about 100 yuards away from us). bottom line.........this AUX Captain couldn't even find a charted bouy within two miles of the most visible landmark in sight! Thank goodness, we were NOT in any danger! I finally had to give him a compass heading to bring him to our location. I have a lot of respect for the USCG. This incident, however, gave me a really tainted view of the AUX. They wear their uniforms and fly the AUX flag, and ride around on weekends looking important, so someone else will buy their fuel. This guy really needed to take a few lessons on how to read a compass and chart! Joe
About three months after I bought my Helms 30 in 1983, I lost the rudder in a race in the Chesapeake Bay due to electrolisis. It just fell off! I was last in the race and the windy conditions had the bay in a pretty good chop! I needed a tow home, at least seven miles from where I was. I called the Coast Guard. I wasn't taking any water and was in no danger. so They referred me to the USCG AUX. Aabout ten minutes later, I received a call from an AUX vessel who was dispatched to tow me back to port. I gave him my position which was right next to a bouy we had used as a mark in the race. It was also two miles NOrth of a very easy to see light house in the Southern Bay. When I asked him for his position, he was seven miles from me making fifteen knots, so I expected him to arrive in about thirty minutes. Thirty minutes later, we haven't even seen his boat! I called him and inquired about his position again. He said he was on his way to the position I had given him. To make a long story short, instead of taking a course that would bring him to us, he whet up the shore line missing us by about four miles and went seven miles north of us. Then he called to tell me we were not at the bouy we said we were! (I was still looking at it about 100 yuards away from us). bottom line.........this AUX Captain couldn't even find a charted bouy within two miles of the most visible landmark in sight! Thank goodness, we were NOT in any danger! I finally had to give him a compass heading to bring him to our location. I have a lot of respect for the USCG. This incident, however, gave me a really tainted view of the AUX. They wear their uniforms and fly the AUX flag, and ride around on weekends looking important, so someone else will buy their fuel. This guy really needed to take a few lessons on how to read a compass and chart! Joe
More Boarding Stories
We were boarded by the Coast Guard about four, maybe five years ago - coming north on the ICW just before we entered the Cape Fear River. This happened shortly after the Coast Guard got a bit of a black eye when they didn't respond to a young boy calling in a Mayday at the Charleston, S.C. inlet. They seemed, after that incident, to want to make their presence known. They were very polite and 'by the book'. There was a young fellow with them, maybe around eighteen, (hard to say, when you're my age, everyone under 30 looks around 18) and he seemed to be in training. He was all formal, and a bit nervous. The first thing asked was 'Do you have weapons aboard?' I answered 'No'. But when he got to the part where he was asking about our life jackets, I opened our PFD bag. Attached to the top 2 PFD's were a whistle, a flashlight and, omigod, a knife. His hand was in my face immediately and he was screaming, "Stand back! Stand back! Stand back!" I thought it was going to explode or something, so I stood back and said, 'What?' and he said, 'You told us you had no weapons aboard.' I answered, 'Well, if that's a weapon, then I've got quite a few. A butcher knife, a whole set of steak knives. I never thought of them as weapons." The other two, older guys calmed him down and he continued down his list. Then, during the course of the discussion, they discovered we were members of the U.S. Power Squadron. The ice melted, and it was immediately like a good ol' boys club meeting. The questions turned into, 'Yeah, I'm sure you've got this or that' as they checked off the rest of the list. They asked me why I didn't fly my Power Squadron Ensign and I told them I usually do, but had forgotten. They told me if I had had it up they probably would have picked on someone else. Rest assured I fly it all the time now! My other experience with them was watching - we were at anchor in the Fort Pierce inlet in Florida working to build up the cruising kitty. We were within a couple of hundred yards of the CG station so got to watch all of their activity. I always got a laugh because, on the weekends, you knew which boats were going to be boarded - the ones with the most and briefest bikinis. Of course, most of the patrol boats were manned by what looked to my eyes like kids. Sorry this is so long, but I've got a couple of more stories to relate. While we were at anchor at Ft. Pierce inlet (no mean trick, by the way, with the current there) we saw them bring all the body bags from the Elien (sp?) Gonzales incident. News helicopters flying overhead. All very exciting. Again, while we were there, we were boarded by the Florida Marine Patrol. This was no joyful incident. I had been having a very bad day. Engine work, oh, how I hate engine work. I was adjusting the belts on the alternator and managed to break a bolt. Had to dinghy ashore and ride my fold up bicycle to the hardware store. The nearby store did not have what I needed, so I rode about 6 miles to the next one - and it started to rain. On the way back the rain turned into a deluge. The wind blew. I was miserable. I got back to the boat, replaced the bolt and started to change the oil - my wife mandates that I change the oil naked because she doesn't like to clean my inevitable oil stains. I dropped the filter in my lap as I was climbing out of the engine room - yeah, you picture it right - just at this point, upset, naked, covered with oil, tired, "Knock, knock, knock." on the side of the boat." I stick my head out of the companionway and this fat old marine patrol cop, looking not quite as bedraggled as I but nevertheless, wet and as a consequence, surly. "Marine Patrol, permission to come aboard." It was not a request - he was tied up and climbing into the cockpit. I said, "This is really not a good time." He mumbled something like, "It never is." He wanted to see all the papers. When he radioed the Coast Guard, they couldn't find record of the boat's documentation. Words were exchanged and I insisted that he call them again before he arrested me - which would have been no surprise the way the day had been going. Anyway, he left, I showered and had several fingers of rum.
We were boarded by the Coast Guard about four, maybe five years ago - coming north on the ICW just before we entered the Cape Fear River. This happened shortly after the Coast Guard got a bit of a black eye when they didn't respond to a young boy calling in a Mayday at the Charleston, S.C. inlet. They seemed, after that incident, to want to make their presence known. They were very polite and 'by the book'. There was a young fellow with them, maybe around eighteen, (hard to say, when you're my age, everyone under 30 looks around 18) and he seemed to be in training. He was all formal, and a bit nervous. The first thing asked was 'Do you have weapons aboard?' I answered 'No'. But when he got to the part where he was asking about our life jackets, I opened our PFD bag. Attached to the top 2 PFD's were a whistle, a flashlight and, omigod, a knife. His hand was in my face immediately and he was screaming, "Stand back! Stand back! Stand back!" I thought it was going to explode or something, so I stood back and said, 'What?' and he said, 'You told us you had no weapons aboard.' I answered, 'Well, if that's a weapon, then I've got quite a few. A butcher knife, a whole set of steak knives. I never thought of them as weapons." The other two, older guys calmed him down and he continued down his list. Then, during the course of the discussion, they discovered we were members of the U.S. Power Squadron. The ice melted, and it was immediately like a good ol' boys club meeting. The questions turned into, 'Yeah, I'm sure you've got this or that' as they checked off the rest of the list. They asked me why I didn't fly my Power Squadron Ensign and I told them I usually do, but had forgotten. They told me if I had had it up they probably would have picked on someone else. Rest assured I fly it all the time now! My other experience with them was watching - we were at anchor in the Fort Pierce inlet in Florida working to build up the cruising kitty. We were within a couple of hundred yards of the CG station so got to watch all of their activity. I always got a laugh because, on the weekends, you knew which boats were going to be boarded - the ones with the most and briefest bikinis. Of course, most of the patrol boats were manned by what looked to my eyes like kids. Sorry this is so long, but I've got a couple of more stories to relate. While we were at anchor at Ft. Pierce inlet (no mean trick, by the way, with the current there) we saw them bring all the body bags from the Elien (sp?) Gonzales incident. News helicopters flying overhead. All very exciting. Again, while we were there, we were boarded by the Florida Marine Patrol. This was no joyful incident. I had been having a very bad day. Engine work, oh, how I hate engine work. I was adjusting the belts on the alternator and managed to break a bolt. Had to dinghy ashore and ride my fold up bicycle to the hardware store. The nearby store did not have what I needed, so I rode about 6 miles to the next one - and it started to rain. On the way back the rain turned into a deluge. The wind blew. I was miserable. I got back to the boat, replaced the bolt and started to change the oil - my wife mandates that I change the oil naked because she doesn't like to clean my inevitable oil stains. I dropped the filter in my lap as I was climbing out of the engine room - yeah, you picture it right - just at this point, upset, naked, covered with oil, tired, "Knock, knock, knock." on the side of the boat." I stick my head out of the companionway and this fat old marine patrol cop, looking not quite as bedraggled as I but nevertheless, wet and as a consequence, surly. "Marine Patrol, permission to come aboard." It was not a request - he was tied up and climbing into the cockpit. I said, "This is really not a good time." He mumbled something like, "It never is." He wanted to see all the papers. When he radioed the Coast Guard, they couldn't find record of the boat's documentation. Words were exchanged and I insisted that he call them again before he arrested me - which would have been no surprise the way the day had been going. Anyway, he left, I showered and had several fingers of rum.
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