DandV

I see the tee stud simply as an adaptation of the traditional foredeck samson post present in many small craft primarily to secure the anchor line, bow line and bow springs. On narrow boats the downturned tees are a refinement to aid lassoing the aforementioned stud. Though I did at times wish for some cleats out of the way of any stepping places, to fasten bow springs. Never found that place though.

Voice signals to identify the intended recipient, like "double skull" and the hazard "boat ahead" are generally effective. We use the same, racing big old keelers with limited manoevrability. "Rainbow we will dip you" to indicate we will not challenge our right to cross ahead but will instead cross behind. Or "K957 We require sea room to avoid a gybe when our boom will take out your backstay"

Ah lots of mahogany and royal blue, or deep red, velvet upholstery. Classic pleasure boat. Not so sure about it for narrowboats though. Bit of a clash between the working boat heritage, and an upper class pleasure boating heritage.