Hobie Wave - Page 29

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Sailing Basics
Launching the Boat
Launching the boat is easiest when the boat can be pointed into the
wind to keep it de-powered and float into deep enough water to lower
the rudders. It is possible to launch in shallow water with the rudders
partly up. Try not to steer with too much force on the rudders until you
lock them in the down position. Keep the sail loose and trimmed out
completely.
When launching from a beach where the wind is blowing from the
beach towards the water you simply keep the boat pointed into the
wind. Drift backwards with the rudders in the up position and your
weight towards the front of the boat. Stay forward as the boat drifts
into deeper water. You can hold the sail out to catch wind backwards to
increase reverse speed. Then move to the rear and lower the rudders.
It will be easiest to lower only one rudder while moving backwards.
Then lower the other when the boat begins to move forward again.
Be aware of the intended direction you wish to sail when lowering the
rudder and steer the boat as the rudder drops into the water. There
will be a lot of force on the rudder to turn one way or the other when
going backwards. Plan ahead and steer the rudders so that they will
be pointing in that direction before dropping it into the water. Steer
the boat while going backwards so the bow turns away from the wind
and toward the direction you wish to sail. As the sail begins to fill with
wind, the boat will slow then begin to move forward. Trim in the sail
and off you go.
Docking
Docking the Wave properly will prevent damage. Always dock and rig
on the leeward side of a dock (the side the wind reaches last). Come
in slowly and always be aware of the wind direction so you can prop-
erly de-power the boat when needed. The stronger the wind the more
difficult the docking will be. Until you feel confident, you may want to
practice with a friend who will remain on the dock and help slow you
down if necessary.