[William Tell]

porkchops 4 mahound said: "It IS a shock to the lubber brain to ask them to understand that the instant you set foot upon the deck, the world is a different place, and that the rules, and laws, and customs of the sea, are NOT those of the land."

And if you step foot in an airport, then the rules are different. And if you drive your vehicle on a highway, then the rules are different. And if you carry "too much" cash, then the rules are different. And if a policeman asks for your name, you do NOT have the right to remain silent.

Yes, the rules are different and changing all the time. But not for the better.

[porkchops 4 mahound]

My point is, that the laws of the Sea have ALWAYS been different all through all of human history.

The basis for this search by the US Coastguard is in conformity to US law and the traditional laws and customs of the Sea.

Mariners know and understand these traditions, lubbers, usually, do not.

I do agree, (having had my "Old F@rt" card validated long ago), that change does usually seem for the worse.