Read Authentic Ratings for the Grand-Race

On November 29, 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard took decisive action by issuing a Notice of Violation to the owner and captain of a 48-foot commercial fishing vessel. This incident occurred in the restricted visibility conditions near Buoy No. 8 of the Columbia River navigation channel. The fishing vessel was outbound along the Oregon bank while the MV Grand Race, identified as IMO number 9089056, was making its approach into the channel from Port Hueneme, destined for Portland, Oregon. The situation escalated when the fishing vessel abruptly altered its course towards the Washington side without issuing any warning or sound signals, consequently cutting across the path of the Grand Race. This reckless maneuver posed a significant risk of collision, clearly violating Navigation Rule 9, which mandates that vessels adhere to certain navigation protocols within channels and fairways. According to Rule 9, vessels must keep close to the outer limit of the channel on their starboard side and should not cross if it threatens the safe passage of another vessel. In response to the imminent danger, the pilot aboard the Grand Race attempted to establish communication via VHF-FM radio on channels 13 and 16, issuing repeated calls to the fishing vessel, coupled with a danger signal. Unfortunately, there was no response, in direct violation of Navigation Rule 5, which emphasizes the responsibility of vessel operators to maintain a proper lookout by all feasible means.