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Originally Posted by The Big Kahuna
I did get a tow out of the way of traffic, I then had to row the 100 yards to shore.
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BK, you are somewhat sidestepping the question/issue here. WHO towed you out of the way of traffic? Was it the MP? If it was, their obligation to you was completed after your boat was towed clear of traffic. If MP didn't tow you but another boater did, then help WAS available. Did the MP offer to call someone in your behalf? Did you refuse a call to a marina or boat dealer? Even though those places might have been closed, MP could have a list of emergency numbers for them and a tow might have been negotiated. Like it or not, MP is not the AAA of the water.
It is a shame your family had to endure that unpleasant event, but boating can be iffy at best. Preplanning can take some of the sting out of experiences like yours. Making sure all your gauges work and having them serviced if needed. Having your engine tuned and your drive unit serviced annually will help keep the tow boat away. Your fuel gauge didn't crap out that night, I am sure. If you had any time on the boat, you should have known how long the fuel would last and where the gauge should read after a given length of time.
A cell phone might have been a good thing to have, along with a VHF radio. Flares are worthwhile at night when all else fails. I hope you are better prepared now 10 years later.