How to Drive a Boat? 10 Fundamentals of Driving A Boat
You may open it by sliding or pulling back a small clip attached to it. Like how you drive a car, a truck, or any motor vehicle for that matter, you must be mindful of controlling your speed to prevent any accidents. Boat lines are ropes that secure your motorboat to the slip, pier, or dock. These are the mooring lines, dock lines, and spring lines, among others.
When I first started driving the boat, my biggest obstacle was overcoming nerves. Take my word for it, there’s nothing to be nervous about. Next, turn the battery switch to the on position and head over to the captain’s seat. Once seated, attach the emergency stop lanyard to your person. This lanyard is typically a bright red cord attached to the emergency stop switch. Thirdly, when the prop does grab as you lose speed, it causes the back of the boat to rise out of the water due to hull shape.
That way, in case anything does happen and you call for help, it would make it easier for the other party to spot you. They are more spacious than some other boats which means you will not have to fight for legroom. This is especially important if you are a taller individual. Advance the throttle as appropriate to reach the desired speed. Do a quick check and make sure that all of your belongings are on your boat. You can use flare guns or whistles to call the attention of nearby boats.
The trim has two main purposes which are; move the propeller away from the ground in shallow water and contribute to the overall performance of the boat while it’s underway. However, throwing the throttle in reverse while underway will act sort of like a brake and bring the boat to a halt quicker than if you just put it in neutral. Once the prop is submerged and the engine is tilted to the degree you want, turn the key and start the motor.
You will see that the bow is starting to rise to an angle with the speed. In no wind, condition engages reverse and slowly steer away from the berth, marina or pontoon. Once you came to a safe distance balance your boat and proceed.
This helps you know how your boat responds at different speeds. Instead, just slow to a safe limit boatlife and then turn; generally 20-25% slower than the top speed. Now when you reverse slowly this will push your stern into the dock while your bow will move away.