Owner’s Manual Page 129Prelaunch and Underway - Section T
Pre-launch and Underway
T - 1 LAUNCH AND CRUISE CHECKLIST
Get a current weather report. If the weather will not be favorable, postpone your trip.
If your boat has been out of the water, check to see that all bilge water has drained out.
Install hull drain plugs.
Inspect the hull and propeller for damage. Excessive dirt or marine growth will effect your boat’s
performanceandfuelefciency.
Check the electrical system and navigation lights.
Ifyourboathasbeeninthewater,runthebilgepumpuntiltheowofwaterstops.
Check that all required safety equipment is on board and in good working condition. Examples include
personalotationdevices(PFDs),horn,reextinguisher,visualdistresssignals,etc.Takealongextra
drinking water.
Check that other important equipment is on board. Examples include mooring lines, anchor and line,
toolkit,rstaidkit,etc.
Open engine compartment. Inspect for fuel odors and visible leaks in the fuel, oil, coolant, exhaust and
power steering systems.
Visually inspect engine for cracked hose, defective belts, or other signs of engine problems. Check engine
oilandbatterywaterlevels.Checkpowersteeringuidlevel.Checkbatteryelectrolyterange.
Checkfuellevel.Fueltanksshouldbelledtoslightlylessthancapacity.Allowforfuelexpansion.
Check that all engine drains are closed (stern drives).
Make sure navigation charts and equipment are on board.
Check operation of steering system, navigation lights, and operation of horn.
Make sure passengers and crew know what to do in case of an emergency and how to operate
safety equipment.
Make sure all required documents are on board.
Fileaoat/tripplanwitharesponsiblepartyashore.
Keep an eye on the weather. Be aware of possible changing conditions by monitoring local weather
broadcastspriortodeparture.Thecaptainorrstmateshouldpersonallymonitorstrongwindsand
electrical storms.
Always keep accurate up-to-date charts of your boating area on board.
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