Fred- Now you're telling secrets!
Ever wonder how airplane fighter pilots can fly for extended periods while being refueled without getting up to go ? Well, for number 1 at least, they have a "pilot's relief tube" sheath over their #1 orifice that is connected via some plumbing to the outside world.
"Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning. Red sky at night, sailor's delight." Now we have to add: Yellow streak in the sky, find some place else to fly.
Actually, I wouldn't be surprised if this kind of problem arises on ship's pilot stations, although usually there's only a four hour or so duty cycle and / or someone else to turn the wheel over to for "relief"!
If one is of mildly inventive nature, they could easily add a tube next to the helm station that would allow the pilot to continue to steer the boat while finding relief to his predicament.
Of course, you'd have to explain what the tube was for to any ship's visitors, especially women, but you could always just say that is was a voice tube to the engine room to communicate signals.
Under such circumstances, "All astern full" would take upon new meaning, of course, and would signal the beginning of a more comfortable cruise for our commander at the helm.
One word of caution: sure hope we don't find any ladies we've fibbed to doing relief helm duty and speaking signals down the tube and expecting voiced answers from the boys in the engine room!
On a more practical note, a large wide mouth Gatorade bottle can serve the same purpose and be emptied later at a more convenient and private moment. Wrap duct tape around it to conceal its contents on the way to the marina head. Also works great in the night when the cold is so great as to make the trek to the head a tough "go".
Hope I haven't offended anyone, just bored and trying to find a little humor in a delicate subject! Joe.
