Everyone starts small even boaters. Whether you need a new hobby, or just want to enjoy a cruise on the open waters here are some of the basic things you need to know as a boater.
Knowing the proper boating terms
• Mastering the right boating terms is
important. The bow is a short term for “you bow forward” means front. Port is
left, Starboard is right, Stern is the back of the boat, and the beam is where
the widest width of the boat.
• Every time you go on board always check for
these things – fire extinguisher, life vests, gas, oil, and 3 flares. Everybody
onboard is required by the law to wear life vests even adults.
• Inspect the bilge pump area to check for
water. In some boats, you may need to turn on the bilge to see.
• Always check the ventilation blowers before
starting the engine. Look for any unusual seepage or oil in the water. These
gases can leak from the engine and might blow you up.
• Once you check everything is clear, turn on
the ignition and just look at the engine. You really don’t need to be an expert
mechanic if you see smoke coming out from the engine to know there is a
problem.
• Look at your gauges. Oil pressure is around
60, engine temperature is from 160 to 175. RPM is usually at about 3000 at 30
mpg.
Driving on the open waters
• As any vehicle, it is important to know the
speed limit of the area. Most people do not pay attention to it which results
in boating accidents.
• Keep in mind that you should always be 100
feet from the shore and 500 feet away from any people using Jet Skis.
• Keep at the ‘one click’ speed within the 5
mph zone to avoid accidents. When you
move the lever, go really slowly. Remember to level out the boat when starting
out.
• Another rule to always remover is boats
with lower priority must give way for vessels with higher priority. Higher
priority vessels are those who are unable to maneuver or have a limited ability
to maneuver. Lower priority vessels may include boats engaged in fishing (this
does not include trolling line which does not limit maneuverability) and power
driven vessels.
• If this confuses you, then it's best to
avoid larger vessels at any cost even if you have the right of way just to be
cautious.
• Memorize the term “Red Right Returning”.
Green and Ref buoys are an indication of directions. When heading north red
buoys should be on your Port (left) and vice versa when going back.
When docking
• One of the trickiest parts in boating is
docking. Remember to do ‘one click’ and never going past it. It is important to
go slow and never rush when docking. Easy does it, as they say.
• Once you successfully dock, turn off the
battery with the switch. If you leave any light on, your battery will not drain
and you can still start up the engine.
Boating
can be quite an adventure. Knowing the basics of boating can make the
experience more exciting! And if you are looking for an excellent gift to give
a loved one who is an avid boater, Carved Lake Art has a wide array of nautical
gifts for you! Check out these Great Lakes 3-D Nautical Wood Chart of Big BearLake.
