jchaplain
Contributor
As a scuba diver and a boater in Massachusetts , I'm always VERY careful when operating my boat around divers.
But what does Massachusetts law really have to say on the issue? I checked it closer today and was kind of shocked.
For boaters and divers...
If possible, vessel operators not engaged in the diving operation should stay at least 100 feet from a displayed flag. If not possible, vessel operators must reduce speed to no more than 3 miles per hour.
But if you are a whale you get MUCH more protection from motor boats.
From the Mass Environmental website -
http://www.boat-ed.com/ma/handbook/environ.htm
To protect whales in their habitat, the following operation guidelines are recommended:
Avoid excessive speed or course change within 500 YARDS of whales.
Boat operators are prohibited from approaching within 500 yards of Northern Right whales.
Approach with extreme caution within 100 YARDS of any other species of whales.
So, if you are a whale 100 to 500 YARDS of protection.
If you are a diver...no protection really because the law states that a boat only 'should' stay away and can actually go over you at 3 mph...
Go figure...... :shakehead
Something tells me us divers need a lobby
John C.
But what does Massachusetts law really have to say on the issue? I checked it closer today and was kind of shocked.
For boaters and divers...
If possible, vessel operators not engaged in the diving operation should stay at least 100 feet from a displayed flag. If not possible, vessel operators must reduce speed to no more than 3 miles per hour.
But if you are a whale you get MUCH more protection from motor boats.
From the Mass Environmental website -
http://www.boat-ed.com/ma/handbook/environ.htm
To protect whales in their habitat, the following operation guidelines are recommended:
Avoid excessive speed or course change within 500 YARDS of whales.
Boat operators are prohibited from approaching within 500 yards of Northern Right whales.
Approach with extreme caution within 100 YARDS of any other species of whales.
So, if you are a whale 100 to 500 YARDS of protection.
If you are a diver...no protection really because the law states that a boat only 'should' stay away and can actually go over you at 3 mph...
Go figure...... :shakehead
Something tells me us divers need a lobby
John C.