Some newbie advice - Thank you!

[Scappare]

Between the docks and this page I've heard a few good ideas that maybe y'all knew but I sure didn't and maybe other newbie's might find helpful. Just random thoughts some may be more accurate then others :wink:

When you pump out and are empty add another 10 gallons or so from the hose and pump out again to get the stuff in the bottom. Use the dehumidifier when away from the boat. Put on the Refridge AC and DC when away from the boat that way if you lose power on the dock the batteries will keep stuff cold for a while. Sad to say, but where we are it's best to chain up the adapter for your shore power. When backing in (ahhhhh) it's good to just stop (neutral) for a sec. and see what the wind and tide are actually doing to your boat. When docking/gas pumps/pump out and not sure if you will have to do some quick maneuvering having lines and bumpers on both sides sure makes it's it a little less frantic. Turn off electronics when starting the boat - I guess the power drops and surges. Take note of the engine(s) temperature at cruising speed and if it climbs up some over time check the filters down below. Assume the boats around you out in the water have bombed captains and you'll never be sorry. Run the radar during a good, clear day so you can see what the blips look like on the water. Always have extra food & booze around the dock because your neighbors are always visiting or your visiting them and you'll want to bring something. When in doubt tip the person. Go out of your way to help people getting in to their slip the more hands the better and it builds good relations. Don't feed the swans. 7 to 1 on the anchor line. There is more but I'm probably boring you all, thank you again for helping a newbie make this a fun summer. :grin:

 

[sdrevik]

From a newbie..

.. thanks for posting this. Maybe not all applicable to me, but it's better than nothing. It's important that a board like this with so much knowledge seem imposing to a newbie.

There's so many little things to learn that seem silly and obvious as little as 4-6 weeks later. Like after pumping out your waste tank, throw the pump hose in the water to clean out the hose. I'd hate to have the hose after a newbie that doesn't know that trick....

 

[wadebmadden]

SPARE PARTS

On the water you cant just run to the boat shop.

Props and hardware, belts, maybe even points. It all depends on your boat. spend some time to look around and see what you would be stranded without and then buy some extras!!!
and the tools to do basic maintenance.

And always make sure all the lines are in before starting the boat, I know it sounds simple, but it does get overlooked.

Buy a Chapmans (book on basic seamanship) great all around information.

 

[sdrevik]

Other newbie-to-newbie hints:

Always approach the fuel dock and slip slow... it's easier to bump the throttle than take speed off (reverse swings the stern). Always double-check shore power connection before leaving. It's hard to get into the habit of using the blower after parking your boat on the lake (slip and fuel dock use is easy to remember), so badger your wife or other passengers to remind you. If another boat is rude, let it slide, the water is no place for road rage, and life's too short. The more cupholders the better. Keep the boat stocked with trash bags. Make sure you have your credit card for fuel or keep an emergency stashed on the boat (yeah, I have a story already...).

 

[Presentation]

SPARE PARTS.....

Yes, I agree. Add spare navigation light bulbs and fuses.

 

[wadebmadden]

I also like to keep all manuals on the boat, gps, vhf, and repair manual, whatever you have installed that may be new or unfamiliar to you.

Those things dont really do any good in the truck or on the kitchen table when you are on the water and need some onfo on your equipment!


Also, a co2 fire extinguisher. If you have a fire in your engine compartment you wont want to just open the hatch. This will add a lot of O2 to the fire causing it to get even bigger. if you have a fire access (or if not) you just crack the door open far enough to stick the nozzle in, dry chem may not get to the source of the fire, However, the Co2 will fill the entire engine compartment and will do a far better job snuffing out the fire.


One more tip. Look into the Coast Guard Auxillary or Power Squadron for boating safety classes. I know families that take one every year.

 

[Stray Cat]

Put your antenna down before backing into a covered slip. That white thingy isn't a roof feeler....doooooh

Been there - dun it :smt013