You’re quite right, Dwayne.

It’s fortunate that it comes out this way because it would be quite a mess otherwise. The Netherlands Antilles have been two separate DXCC entities by reason of distance separation since 1955. The two parts are in different continents, so CQ would count them separately anyway.

Dave

From: Dwayne Allen [mailto:dwayne@wy7fd.com]
Sent: Wednesday, October 13, 2010 11:02 PM
To: arrl-odv
Subject: W4TV's measurments

Folks,

I am no lawyer (thankfully) but the following was copied from the DXCC rules.

2. Geographic Separation Entity

b) Island Areas (Separation by Water):

ii) The island is separated from its Parent by 350 kilometers or more, and from any other island attached to that Parent in the same or a different island group by 800 kilometers or more.

I see no instructions on the method of measurement to be employed in determining the distance between the islands or island group.  If the greater circle method was used in determining the correct distance between Saba and Bonaire, then the distance is 801 KM.   This is clearly a case of nit-picking.  Also if one employs the scientific significant figures rules, 799.609 will round to 800 anyway.

If I am wrong, please correct me… I am used to it.

.

My two cents worth.  73,

WY7FD,

Dwayne Allen

Vice-Director

ARRL Rocky Mountain Division