SUNSHINE EXPRESS

Deck rails must be designed and constructed to withstand a point load of 91 kilograms (200 pounds) applied at any point in any direction, and a uniform load of 74 kilograms per meter (50 pounds per foot) applied to the top rail in any direction. Rails on passenger decks of a ferry or a vessel engaged in excursion trips, including but not limited to sightseeing trips, dinner and party cruises, and overnight cruises, must be at least 1,000 millimeters (39.5 inches) high. While engaged in big game angling, the minimum rail height may be reduced to not less than 760 millimeters (30 inches) in way of a person using specialized angling techniques or equipment, such as when using a pedestal mounted fixed fighting chair on a low freeboard vessel, if it can be shown that a higher rail would interfere with the fishing operation and the lower rail would not significantly reduce safety. A rail complying with the requirements of paragraphs (d)(1), (2), or (3) of this section as applicable must be installed when big game angling is not being conducted. Rail courses or the equivalent must be installed between a top rail required by paragraph (a) of this section, and the deck so that no open space exists that is more than 305 millimeters (12 inches) high except:(1) On passenger decks of a ferry or of a vessel on an excursion trip the following must be installed:(i) Bulwarks;(ii) Chain link fencing or wire mesh that has openings of not more than 4 inches in diameter; or(iii) Bars, slats, rail courses, or an equivalent spaced at intervals of not more than 100 millimeters (4 inches).Regulations that were applicable to the vessel on March 10, 1996: (c) On passenger decks of vessels engaged in a ferry or excursion type operation, rails shall be at least 42 inches high. The space below the rail shall be fitted with bulwarks, chain link fencing, wire mesh, or the equivalent. (d) On sport fishing vessels where it can be shown that higher rails would interfere with the normal operation of the vessel, rails of at least 30 inches height may be permitted. During the COI Renewal Inspection, it was identified that the actual deck rail height is 34". An OCMI determination was made that the vessel is required to be installed with a minimum deck rail height of 39-1/2". Submit drawings, plans, and specifications to the OCMI for review and approval to modify the deck rails IAW 46CFR177.900. 46CFR177.900 46CFR177.35-1