[ve-l] Definition Question

[Dave Donkers]

Greetings  --

A question was raised this last weekend at our
VE training/refresher session, and I haven't
been able to find an answer:

On Page 25 of the VE Manual, it states in the second
bullet item under MARPOL Trash Placards, "United States
oceangoing vessels over 40 feet, engaged in commerce
or are equipped with a galley and berthing, must have
a written _Trash_Management_Plan_ ...".

This is a paraphrase of 33CFR151.57, but I have not
been able to determine the answer to the question
that was brought up: "Exactly what is an oceangoing
vessel?"

Here in the heart of suburban Chicago, it becomes
an interesting question.  Is it a vessel that is
sailing outside the COLREGS Demarcation Line or
just a vessel that is capable of sailing there?

I can see where a VE would want to see  a TMP on a
52' cabin cruiser at a marina in Jupiter, FL, but
what about a 45' Carver at a marina on the Illinois
River that has no intention of ever going farther
than Lake Michigan?  That boat is certainly capable
of going on the ocean.  Alternatively, what about
a 65' houseboat a few miles away that may not be
safe on Lake Michigan given her 2 foot freeboard?

Is there an official answer I can give as to what is
an "oceangoing vessel"?  I would appreciate getting
references over opinions.

Lt/C Dave Donkers, SN
DuPage VSC Chair
D/20