Bertram 540 - Yacht Operation During Navigation

540
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GETTING UNDERWAY
Studio ti 03312 540-04usa
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4.9 YACHT OPERATION DURING NAVIGATION
The yacht is very efficient and is equipped with very responsive rudders;
nevertheless, because of its size and performance capability, only
persons experienced, competent, responsible, prudent and with
necessary qualifications should operate the yacht.
The yacht is manoeuvred by means of the steering wheel in the control
station. The steering wheel operates the rudders via a hydraulic system.
The steering gear operation is independent from the engine operation.
Never leave the steering wheel unattended when the yacht is navigating.
Keep in mind that the rudder effect is proportional to the propeller rpm
and the yacht’s speed, especially when moving forward. As a
consequence, the rudder efficiency is high at high rpm and speed. On the
contrary, when the engines are idling and the yacht’s speed is low, the
yacht’s reaction to the tiller angle is almost negligible.
If necessary, or when in restricted waters, you can steer the yacht with
the engines by varying and/or reversing the engine speeds and
alternating power from port and starboard engines.
At low rpm’s, operating on a single engine, alternating port and starboard
engines and using the “back and fill” method for turning the yacht is the
recommended practice. Learn and practice the skills for handling the
yacht at low speed and engine rpm.
When the yacht’s speed increases, the transition of the hull from
displacement mode to planing mode is a critical phase. The transition to
the planing mode should be done as quickly as practical to achieve fuel
efficiency and provide a comfortable motion.
The minimum planing speed depends on yacht’s displacement, the load
distribution; trim tab position and sea conditions.
Adjust speed and trim tab positions according to the sea conditions and
the loading of the yacht to ensure a comfortable yacht motion and avoid
stresses to the yacht structure from the affects of sea conditions.
The high quality engines allow running the yacht safely at cruising speed
for extended periods of time.
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NOTICES
Persons operating your yacht must never be under the influence of
alcohol or drugs. The yacht’s pilot should be experienced in the use of
all instruments and controls, and know the handling characteristics of
the yacht at all speeds and sea conditions.
You should be certain that persons intending to operate your yacht are
completely knowledgeable about its proper operation. If you are not
certain about an individual’s qualifications or competence, the person
must be supervised by a qualified operator.
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NOTICES
At high speed, the use of the autopilot is dangerous and not
recommended. Anyway, be always very careful during navigation also
when the autopilot is in use.