[PeeBee]

Originally Posted by David Wallace

So I have pulled the the wording on manning in the code for information areas 3,4,5,6, are all less than 20 miles from safe haven. area 3 may operate at night but as you read this you will see that it cannot do so single handed.


here it is;

7. Single Handed Operations

7.1 The MCA does not recommend single handed operations. Vessels operating under this Code, other than those engaged as Pilot Boats or in any other business which involves the transfer of personnel at sea, may be operated single handed providing that the person operating the vessel complies fully with the minimum requirements for a skipper (appropriately qualified for the operating area) and the following conditions:-

the area of operation is restricted to Area Category 3, 4, 5 or 6 in conditions of favourable weather and subject to favourable official weather forecasts for the area throughout the period of operation; and
the duration of the voyage should not exceed 8 hours; and
the vessel is not operated single handed in conditions of restricted visibility; and
an acceptable lifejacket is worn at all times by the skipper; and
no overside working takes place whilst the vessel is being operated single handed; and
details of the time and point of departure, voyage plan and the Expected Time of Arrival (ETA) of every single handed voyage are left with a suitable person ashore and that person is notified of the safe arrival on completion of each voyage; and
communication should be made with a person ashore or with a vessel in company at regular agreed intervals; and
on all open sportsboats, inflatable craft and RIBS, engine kill-cords should be fitted and used at all times.
7.2 In some cases, because of the size and arrangement of the vessel, the Certifying Authority may deem the vessel not to be suitable for single handed operations. In all cases where single handed operations are carried out, the owner/managing agent and the skipper should be satisfied that it is safe to do so. The vessels certificate should show that it is suitable for “single handed” operations

Interesting bit of code there Dave
How many skippers have any of you guys seen wearing a life jacket at all times, if ever?