OP
As a RYA Ocean Yachtmaster your credentials are quite impressive and something to be proud of. You obviously worked hard to earn the distinction of being one of the very best.
However, lets take a look at what rule 3 specifically states when defining the term "sailing vessel":
RULE 3 GENERAL DEFINITIONS
(c) The term "sailing vessel" means any vessel under sail provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used.
The rule does not make an exception in the event that the propelling machinery is not in gear, is being used to charge batteries, etc. It specifically states that to be considered a "sailing vessel", that this machinery is not being used. In the eyes of the court if your engine is on it is being used...
So, although it is true that there are many reasons why a skipper operating a sailboat may want to run their engines... If they do they should not consider themselves a "sailing vessel" while their propelling machinery (engine(s)) is running.
As a prudent mariner it may be wise to keep your engine running and in neutral when in a situation where you may need the extra help to get yourself out of a dangerous situation... I own a catamaran and often keep my engines on and in neutral just in case... However, even if my sails are up and I am sailing according to the Rules of the Road I am now considered to be a power driven vessel...
Your suggestion that if there is any doubt, hail the other vessel via radio or just simply give way/alter course just in case... Is good advise! And in direct accordance with Rule #2.
I also recognize that no one statement or piece of advise can cover every situation... My goal here is to give sound advise which will prevent an issue of safety in most cases...
__________________
Captain Bob Figular
President, Mariners School
However, lets take a look at what rule 3 specifically states when defining the term "sailing vessel":
RULE 3 GENERAL DEFINITIONS
(c) The term "sailing vessel" means any vessel under sail provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used.
The rule does not make an exception in the event that the propelling machinery is not in gear, is being used to charge batteries, etc. It specifically states that to be considered a "sailing vessel", that this machinery is not being used. In the eyes of the court if your engine is on it is being used...
So, although it is true that there are many reasons why a skipper operating a sailboat may want to run their engines... If they do they should not consider themselves a "sailing vessel" while their propelling machinery (engine(s)) is running.
As a prudent mariner it may be wise to keep your engine running and in neutral when in a situation where you may need the extra help to get yourself out of a dangerous situation... I own a catamaran and often keep my engines on and in neutral just in case... However, even if my sails are up and I am sailing according to the Rules of the Road I am now considered to be a power driven vessel...
Your suggestion that if there is any doubt, hail the other vessel via radio or just simply give way/alter course just in case... Is good advise! And in direct accordance with Rule #2.
I also recognize that no one statement or piece of advise can cover every situation... My goal here is to give sound advise which will prevent an issue of safety in most cases...
__________________
Captain Bob Figular
President, Mariners School