OK, after 25 years of inland lakes, we're now on our second year of Gulf Coastal boating. We should have named the boat "Chicken of the Sea"
, as we mostly stay in the bays and run the ditch 125 mi south and 200 mi north.
When we encounter commerical traffic in the ditch, there's always a question of breaking down (slowing our 38'er, as we throw as much as a three foot stern wake at cruise,) when passing or overtaking a tug pushing or pulling.
We try to be religious about contacting the other vessel and asking what their preference is in meeting, usually port to port.
So, just when should we break down, or know when to ask? While most of our tug captains are respectful, (even the cajun Capts. when I can understand them,) they can be unrelenting when asked what may be a dumb question.
Your experiences would be appreciated.
Fred