STACER boat - Maneuvering and Docking; Basic Maneuvering Principles; Docking Approach

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Cross-section Standard Fuel Tank
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Cross-section Standard Fuel Tank
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• Checktheoperationofequipmentsuchasbilge
pumps, running lights, radios, etc. Check the
steering. Turn the steering wheel to a complete
lock, clockwise and anti-clockwise, to ensure that
there is free movement.
• Instructpassengersintheuseandlocationof
flotation devices.
• Obtainareliableweatherforecastandplan
accordingly for everyone’s comfort and safety.
• Notifyaresponsiblefriendorrelativeofyour
intended path. Upon your return or a change in
your cruise schedule, notify that person again to
avoid unnecessary concern.
• Ensureeveryoneisseated(inoronaseat).
• Becertainanyoperatorhasnotbeenorisnot
consuming alcoholic beverages/or non prescribed
drugs.
• Withallpre-departurechecksnowcompleted,you
are ready to leave the dock.
HANDY TIP
Carry plenty of rope that is properly sized for your
boat. We suggest at least two 10m lengths of
10mm rope.
HANDY TIP
When commissioning a new boat, do not plan an
extensive trip until you are sure all equipment is
functioning properly and you are familiar with the
boat’s operation.
NECESSARY MAINTENANCE
Hose inside boat after use with a
substantial quantity of fresh water.
Leave boat permanently tilted to drain after use.
The flotation material is susceptible to
degradation upon contact with petrol.
Flotation material should be checked regularly
to assess its condition. (example of Necessary
Maintenance label)
Manoeuvring
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Basic Manoeuvring Principles
Basic Manoeuvring
Remember all boats steer by the stern (the feeling is
much like steering your car in reverse). For example,
when turning the steering wheel to the left, the
stern of the boat will swing to the right as the boat
goes into a left turn. This is particularly important to
remember when docking, or in close quarters with
other boats.
There are no brakes on a boat. Stopping is
accomplished by allowing the boat to slow down
(under 10 km/p/h) and putting the engine in
reverse. Gently increasing reverse power allows
you to stop the boat in a very short distance. A
boat does not respond to steering in reverse nearly
as well as it does when going forward, so do not
expect to accomplish tight turning manoeuvres when
backing up.
Once you are away from the dock, devote some time
to learning how to manoeuvre:
• Practicedockingbyusinganimaginarydock.
• Practicestoppingandreversing.
• Whenoperatinginclosequartersordocking,all
manoeuvring should be done at idle speed.
• Proceedwithcautionincongestedareas.
• Graduallyincreaseyourspeed.Familiariseyourself
with the boat before attempting any full throttle
operation.
Preparation
Proper docking requires preparation. Start by making
sure you have adequate mooring gear that is stowed
correctly and ready for use. Your dealer is the best
source for information concerning the amount and
type of equipment you should carry.
Approaching the Dock
When approaching a dock, lower your speed within
reasonable distance to allow the wake to subside
before it reaches other boats, or docks.
As you get close to the dock, check for any wind or
current action that may affect your manoeuvre, then
make a conservative approach with these factors in
mind. Try to use the elements to your advantage.
Allow them to carry the boat into the dock. If there
are high winds or strong currents, it is best to
approach from the lee side (against the wind and
current). With a mild current and little or no wind, it
is best to approach from the windward side (with the
wind and current).
While approaching, ensure all lines are attached to
the cleats on the side facing the dock. Also ensure
fenders are lowered on the same side. Be sure to
check the fenders are hung at the proper height.
8 Owner’s Manual 9