T&T: Black Balls in the Dark

[Rudy and Jill]

> Okay, now that we all know the rules
> and the difference between day and night
> markers, let me ask this.  How many people would even
> know what the back ball
> meant when displayed? 

I agree, but let's look at the subject from a little different direction. The
appropriate day shape or at night, a light, is much like the headlights on
your car. Sure, you turn them on to see better, but you also turn them on for
others to see you better.

The black ball could be hoisted for no other reason than to let other vessels,
especially those of limited maneuverability, to discern your intentions.

This may seem like a minor thing, and just a convenience to most of us, but
we've been through a few situations, where even as short and as slow as we
are, a day shape would have made our life less exciting. I can only imagine
what a captain of a larger, or less maneuverable vessel would think.

We tend to focus on being knowledgeable about what our responsibilities are
and to act accordingly. We try not to allow the fact that others may not know
something relieve us of our responsibilities... well most of the time
anyways.

> BTW, besides sail boats, how
> many boats under 50
> feet or so even have a viable place to display the
> ball??? 

I guess the response here is- if you don't, get one. (Please excuse how that
sounds, it was intended to be simple, not rude.)

Rudy
Briney Bug, Panama City, Fl