Downtown Sailing Center

CRUISING STATEMENT OF LIABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY

No boat designated by the Downtown Sailing Center (DSC) as being administered by the Cruising Program may leave the dock without an approved DSC Cruising Skipper aboard.

An approved DSC Cruising Skipper is a

  • Sailor who has passed the Cruising Skipper Check-out examination approved by the Cruising Program Administration and has accepted responsibility as the Designated Cruising Skipper in charge, or a
  • Sailor on board who is deemed to be fully qualified who has accepted the responsibilities as Designated Skipper and is appointed by the Cruising Program Administration

In keeping with maritime tradition and custom, the Designated Cruising Skipper in charge during any sailing activity shall be responsible for the safety of the boat and all aboard and shall:

  • Adhere to the published DSC Safety and Cruising Limits guidelines and the General Statement of Liability and Responsibility.
  • Complete and submit a float plan for any voyage past the Francis Scott Key Bridge
  • Make entries in the Ship's Log for each voyage
  • Determine that the weather forecast for the duration of the event is within the skipper’s ability and the DSC safety guidelines.
  • Conduct a pre-sail check of the boat and all of its equipment (covering all items on the boat specific check list) and not leave the dock if the boat or its equipment is unsafe.
  • Have on board and use a fully operational VHF radio.
  • Return the boat with the fuel tank at least 3/4 full, all trash removed, and the marine head pumped out.
  • Conduct a post-sail check to make sure the boat is stowed properly and enter in the ship’s log any boat problems noted before or during the cruise.
  • Be liable for any towing expense for the boat.

DSC cruising boats will not be used for:

  • Racing except as permitted by the DSC Cruising Program Administration.
  • Night sailing except as permitted by the DSC Cruising Program Administration.

Please indicate acceptance of the rules and regulations of the DSC with initials below:

____ I have read and understand the Cruising Statement of Responsibility and Liability for a DSC Designated Cruising Skipper and agree to abide by its provisions.

____I have read and understand the Safety Guidelines and agree to abide by its provisions.

____ I have read and understand the Liability Waiver and agree to abide by its provisions.

Signature ______________________________ Date ________________________________

Name Printed ______________________________________