#Yacht radar reflector manual#

MCA guidance says that as the signals are to be used by any ship or person in distress, when communicating with SAR units, it is important that mariners, whether engaged in commercial or leisure activities, are familiar with them. The regulation requires that a copy of the table is easily to hand on board when at sea. RYA Note: The life-saving signals table is available from a number of sources including the MCA website.

#Yacht radar reflector manual#

* Such lifesaving signals are described in the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual Vol.III, Mobile Facilitie, and illustrated in the International Code of Signals, as amended pursuant to resolution A.80(IV). The signals shall be used by ships or persons in distress when communicating with lifesaving stations, maritime rescue units and aircraft engaged in search and rescue operations. Lifesaving Signals Regulation 29Īn illustrated table describing the life-saving signals* shall be readily available to the officer of the watch of every ship to which this chapter applies. The MCA has provided further pleasure vessel specific guidance in MGN 599 paragraph 7.4. It is important that you are visible on a ship’s radar, as many large ships are reliant on their radar for spotting other vessels in the area. Whatever size your boat is, you should fit the reflector according to the manufacturer's instructions and as high as possible for maximum detection range. You should fit the largest radar reflector in terms of Radar Cross Section (RCS) that you can. RYA Note: 'If practicable' means if it is possible to use a radar reflector on your boat then you should use one. Radar Reflectors Regulation 19Ģ.1 All ships irrespective of size shall have:Ģ.1.7 if less than 150 gross tonnage and if practicable, a radar reflector or other means, to enable detection by ships navigating by radar at both 9 and 3 GHz An explanation is also given by the MCA in their SOLAS V for Pleasure Craft leaflet. The exact wording of the regulations is provided followed by some explanatory notes from the RYA. The following regulations are the elements of SOLAS V relevant to pleasure craft under 150 GT.