What's correct way to signify you're loitering drifting

[baz]

Subject: What's correct way to signify you're loitering drifting

There are times when I go out and find a nice spot just to hang out; loiter and drifting some. We sit around in cabin and cockpit and enjoy the surrounding waters and other boats passing by.

Question: When doing this is there a correct way to signify that we aren't under power and loitering/drifting ? It's too deep to anchor at some of our favorite spots.

My concern is that other boats heading toward us need to know we're stationary and not under power. Is there a set of flags for me to raise maybe ? If so, do you think other boaters would recognize the meaning of the flag(s) ?

I'd like to think we can peaceably loiter without the fear of someone simply running into us if we are distracted chatting with each other. Is a dedicated 'lookout' person required under this situation ? I guess I could setup my Garmin radar to warn me if a boat were to enter my warning/collision perimeter.... Do you think this would be necessary ?

Bottom line is.... What are my USCG responsibilities when we loiter as described above ?

Safe boating.... 🙂 ...and thanks for any advice. 🙂

 

[BradOwens]

There are flags and dayshapes to identify that you are fishing, or have divers in the water, but none for just drifting at your leisure. The closest would be "Vessel not under command" but that is only for vessels that can't maneuver due to extraordinary circumstances. Your idea of setting a collision warning on your radar seems prudent. Hopefully, other boaters will notice that you're not making way, and stay clear of you.

 

[NorthernFocus]

We often do the same though likely with less traffic to be concerned about. Fishing boats hoist a basket in the rigging. Maybe you should get a big inflatable wine bottle or hotdog or something.

 

[baz]

...snip... Maybe you should get a big inflatable wine bottle or hotdog or something.

Oh.... I like that idea... "Wine bottle balloon hoisted - & - Happy Hour onboard...." ... but that may attract a crowd. :lol:

 

[NorthernFocus]

...snip... Maybe you should get a big inflatable wine bottle or hotdog or something.

Oh.... I like that idea... "Wine bottle balloon hoisted - & - Happy Hour onboard...." ... but that may attract a crowd. :lol:

Didn't think of that. Better drop a line over the side and stick with the basket.

 

[Brian B]

It is my understanding that even though you are just drifting along you are considered to be "Underway" and the Rules of the Road apply to the situation. Start the engine and give way when necessary, never assume the other boater knows what to do.
There are cocktail flags you could fly on the mast but by the time another boat realizes its meaning he may be in your cockpit.

 

[GA-Midnight Cruise]

Brian B is correct. In this scenario, you are underway, not making way.