[TrueBlue]

Not another powerboat bashing thread.

Powerboaters and sailboaters will always be at odds over boater's right's. There is no perfect solution to this problem and the only increase in rules and regulations I would approve of, is to make it manadatory that all watercraft operators complete a boating course.

Most PWC operators are rebels, basically waterborne motorcycles with a lust for thrills. With some exceptions, these waterbikes will always attract people with little respect for the rights of others. Others are simply ignorant to the rules.

Planing boats need to build up enough momentum to get on plane, in order to reach cruising speed. The problem with 5-10 mph zones, is this is a hull speed which throws larger wakes for these boats than if they were at a moderate planing speed. "Cigarette" style boats, actually throw little wake at higher speed, since they're essentially hydroplaning. Semi-displacement powerboats (larger sport fishing boats) on the other hand, will always make sloppy wakes when cruising - with some hull designs throwing less of a wake than others.

We all know sailboats are disadvantaged in many respects due to limited maneuverability, therefore rules are written to protect us. Powerboaters resent this fact and some may behave badly to express their resentment, especially when we may "seemingly" come about, directly into their path.

Required operator education will encourage a greater understanding of the differences that exist between various watercraft, by overcoming ignorance. In a perfect waterworld, everyone would be more tolerant by understanding each other's limits.

Unfortunately, education will never repair stupidity. In these cases, reporting these idiots to the local LEO, is all we can do.