So... what is a good cat protocol to negotiate the cross in a new to you fleet of pricey boats. ...
Do you hail well in advance... or do you hail when you decide the collision is pending and windward better alter course in a second or two. I understand that there is no requirement for windward to acknowledge any communication nor me to hail.
The only rules that require hailing are 20 and 61.1. Nevertheless, it is almost always a good idea to hail when boats approach (and by that, I mean well in advance of meeting). When both skippers know that the other is aware of their proximity, and what each other intends to do, there is much less panic. Boat crossings are not a good time to take someone by surprise. I believe that's true no matter what the design or price of the boats.
Regards,
Eric
