Am I allowed to luff?

[marisca]

Motoring back to JWD last night the Ali Cat was approaching from behind as I neared Kempock Point. Having explained to my novice crew that "overtaking boat keeps clear" and that I was maintaining my course and speed to avoid confusing the driver, the ferry aimed for my stern and squeezed through between me and the shore giving me about 15m clearance while still maintaining its wash churning 10.2kts (ain't AIS wonderful?). The temptation to close the door when its intentions became obvious was strong.

[Burst Boiler]

At least you saw him coming. I've had him come out of Gourock, blind to any traffic coming upriver, right across my bow. I suspect he has a schedule which is impossible to keep to without hammering at full speed in as direct a course as possible, but it definitely has the worst seamanship of any commercial craft I've ever encountered. Theres also something strange about the wake that particular craft produces - a single sharp line from each hull that doesn't seem to decay. First time it hits you is a real surprise. Have you thought of reporting to Maritime CHIRP? If you do it quick enough his data recorder (showing your ais position) should still be there.

[mm5aho]

I've had a silly experience in that vicinity too.
I went to the aid of a mobo in difficulty about 1/2 mile NW of Cloch. He did get his engine going, but I was not confident that it would keep running, so I agreed by radio (C16 so ferry could hear) to standby him until he was sure.
Western Ferry calls me to say I'm in the way of commercial traffic, and to clear off (or words to that effect).
I refrained from the reply that came to mind, and calmly explained my activity. No reply!

[marisca]

I have always found Western Ferries to be considerate and their stately washless motion is a huge contrast to the tsunamis that follow the Argyll Ferries. But then I didn't park in front of them

[mm5aho]

Quite right about the wake. Those hulls must be made to go faster or something, but the Calmac babies (ex Argyll Ferries) are ridiculous. Western seem much more business-like.