Introduction

There is no substitute for proper training and on the water experience. These guidelines are not intended to be any such substitute, but we hope you'll find them useful as a checklist before using your boat each time.

We strongly recommend that everybody going on the water attends a training course at an ISA (Irish Sailing Association)approved training school, or a school approved by the relevant authority in their own country.

No responsibility for errors or omissions will be accepted under any circumstances, and clarification on navigation and safety norms and regulations should ALWAYS be sought from the relevant authorities.
Further helpful information can be found on www.safetyonthewater.ie

GENERAL BOAT HANDLING

• Remove bung & drain water. Replace bung
  
• Remove lock on power trim
  
• Check sufficient fuel
  
• Check safety equipment ( e.g. lifejackets, paddles, VHF, flares, pump, spare fuel, anchor & rope, fire extinguisher & first-aid kit)
  
• Click here for our Safety equipment checklist
• Check for Deadmans lanyard
  
• Check oil reservoir

• Lower engine
• Prime fuel bulb
• Choke / Throttle
• Push key in & check alarm
• Connect deadman lanyard to self
• Ensure water cooling coming from out-take.

• Check for passenger weight distribution
• Passengers seated with lifejackets.
• Secure lines and fenders inside boat

• Right of Way - Craft with more control give way - RIB gives way to sail
• Pass to the right of on-coming craft i.e. your left (Port) side facing their left side.
• Approach harbours/docks and other craft slowly. Speed limits usually apply to harbours and are enforced.
• Watch for Buoys and Pot Markers whilst underway.
• Planing - once achieved, pull slowly back on throttle
• Rough-water handling. Always be prepared to pull back and ride waves diagonally - never head-on (this avoids breaking waves shifting bow-direction suddenly). Avoid speeding into headwind in rough water.
• Stopping -to avoid backwash rolling over stern, give slight throttle to finish.
• Change of Direction at speed - notify passengers in advance.
• MOB - Man Over Board - pull back on throttle immediately. Approach MOB into wind.

• Remove drain bung & drain
• Check propellor
• Ensure battery & connections dry
• Wash out cooling system with ear muffs.