T&T: Anchoring vs Existing Moorning

[EUGENE ALI]

Snip "Ok, how do I know whose it is and what is to stop someone from just
saying its theirs?"

What you do know is that it is not yours. I would assume if someone comes
along with the claim it belongs to them your only option is to accept that.

Although SURPRISE is kept at a slip, I also have a mooring behind a nearby
island for use in heavy weather or occasionally for lunch or overnight.
Almost always, when I approach the mooring on a weekend, someone stranger is
using it. Usually they are aboard, enjoying lunch and a swim. No problem, I
identify myself as the owner, my name is on the pickup bouy and ball. They
always offer to move. I give them plenty of time, move off for half hour or
so, and return. Several times no one was aboard. Off for a tour of the island
or town. Who Knows.  Not a pleasant situation, as someone said, it's like
parking in someone else's driveway. If I really want, or need, the mooring
then, a call to the harbormaster will bring a team to move the boat.

In our town moorings are assigned based on a long wait-list. The gear is
purchased, maintained, and a annual fee is paid to the town, by the owner.
Only the harbormaster can approve its use by someone other than the owner.

Gene Ali
SURPRISE
38' Downeast
Duxbury, MA