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Shakedown Cruise
As with any new product, it is important that you become familiar with
the boat and all its features. It is also important to determine that the
boat is sound before long trips. We recommend that you do what we
call a “shakedown cruise” when the boat is new, after shipping or
transport, before long trips and after installing any thru-hull fittings.
This test is typically done in shallow, calm conditions where you can
familiarize yourself with or test the boat before taking any long trips into
open water. Things you should check or practice are:
• MirageDrive installation, adjustment and removal
• Rudder operation
• Closing hatches properly
• Drain plug locations to make sure they are properly installed
• Getting in and out of the boat from a capsized state
• Taking the kayak sail down on the water (if applicable)
Mirage Kayak Cassette Plug
You Hobie is shipped with a Mirage Cassette Plug. The plug
is provided as standard equipment in the Mirage Kayak
package. Insert the plug into the Mirage well when the
MirageDrive is removed to provide added safety and to
“fair” the bottom of the hull when paddling.
Getting into your Boat
If you fall out of your boat, stay with the boat. You should be properly
wearing a life jacket/PFD which will keep you afloat. If the boat is
upside-down, it will need to be turned over. To do this, reach across the
bottom of the boat and grab the scupper hole or the Hobie MirageDrive
and pull the boat upright. Position yourself so your head is near the
cockpit area of the boat and you are facing the boat. You will want to
be between the seat and the footwell areas of the boat. Reach across
the boat to the far edge with one hand. Place the other hand on the
near-side rail, then kick with your feet, pulling yourself up and onto the
boat. Roll over onto your backside toward the seat, which should place
your backside in the seat. Sit up, swing your feet into the footwells and
you’re ready to go.
Kayak Sail Safety
The kayak sail is a very popular optional accessory that works really
well with Hobie Mirage kayaks. It is important to familiarize yourself
with the use of the sail and how wind power affects the stability of the
boat. The sail is not recommended to be used in wind conditions over
10 MPH.
Safety
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