Sir, I wish to make a comment about the conduct and unseamanlike behaviour of the skipper of your vessel "Lady Lucille"
Saturday, 22nd inst, "Lady Lucille" passed under 3rd Ave bridge at 8/9kn causing my vessel, which was tied up at slip #61 to slam against a pile damaging an electronic moisture measurement instrument mounting and bending a davit out of true. I remonstrated with the vessels master via CH9. He replied that he was travelling at 4kn. I corrected him, relying on my 35 years experience gained from sailing extensively worldwide, he was travelling at 8/9kn. He found this amusing and made some rather personal and innapropriate comments regarding my nationality, (British), telling anyone who cared to listen on an open channel that; "He thinks he's on the Thames"
The damage caused was minor and was easily repaired but what if somebody had been boarding? Although this was on an "inland waterway" and not subject to sea-going procedures, certain rules and regulations still apply.
I would like to suggest that you ensure that your staff are properly appraised regarding; (a) proper radio procedure as defined by I.M.Law and (b), that they are fully conversant with COLREGS, in particular, Rule 6.
I remain, Sir,
T.P.Halloran.
s.y.Aisling
Portsmouth
United Kingdom