The provision of Rule 10 of the 1972 Collision Regulations, that if vessels are obliged to cross traffic lanes they shall do so as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic flow, would appear to be simple enough. Could it be however that in areas of high traffic density, such as the Dover Strait, the theoretical simplicity of the right-angle crossing introduces problems of its own?

Crossing the Dover Strait several times a week, I am constantly alarmed by the apparent lack of regard for Rules 15 and 16 by vessels using the traffic scheme (The rules governing crossing situations and action required by the give-way vessel). I accept that some vessels using the lane believe, albeit incorrectly, that they have the right of way, but feel that a large proportion of these ‘port-side charlies’ are the result of the right-angle crossing.

Because of the pattern of traffic the speed of crossing vessels in the Strait is generally considerably greater than that of vessels using the lanes. Under the present Regulations a situation frequently arises in which a vessel using the lane finds herself as the give-way vessel to another six points or more on her bow. An initial reluctance to alter course by this amount is followed by the thought that there is not sufficient sea-room in which to alter, and the give-way vessel stands on.