Albemarle 288 EXPRESS FISHERMAN, Owner'S Manual

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288 OBXF
82
• Turn the ignition keys to the “Off” position.
• Raise the trim tabs to the full up position.
After Operation
• If operating in saltwater, wash the boat and all equipment
with soap and water. Flush the engines using fresh water.
Refer to the engine owner’s manual for instructions on
flushing your outboard engines.
• Check the bilge area for debris and excess water.
• Fill the fuel tank to near full to reduce condensation.
Allow enough room in the tank for the fuel to expand
without being forced out through the vent.
• Turn off all electrical equipment except the automatic
bilge pumps.
• If you are going to leave the boat for a long period of
time, put the battery main switches in the “Off” position
and close all seacocks.
• Make sure the boat is securely moored.
TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO THE BOAT, CLOSE ALL
SEA COCKS BEFORE LEAVING THE BOAT.
12.5 Docking, Anchoring and Mooring
Docking and Dock Lines
Maneuvering the boat near the dock and securing the boat
require skill and techniques that are unique to the water, wind
conditions and the layout of the dock. If possible, position a
crew member at the bow and stern to man the lines and assist
in docking operations. While maneuvering close to the dock
consideration must be giving to the wind and current. You
should anticipate the effect these forces will have on the boat
and use them to help put the boat where you want it. It is
important to practice in open water using an imaginary dock
enough to develop a sense for the way your boat handles in
a variety of docking scenarios. You must be able to foresee
the possibilities and have solutions in mind before problems
occur.
Approaching a dock or backing into a slip in high winds or
strong currents requires a considerable amount of skill. If
you are new to boat handling, you should take lessons from
an experienced pilot to learn how to maneuver your boat in
tight quarters in less than ideal conditions. You should also
practice away from the dock during windy conditions.
Dock lines are generally twisted or braided nylon. Nylon is
strong and stretches to absorb shock. It also has a long life
and is soft and easy on the hands. The line’s size will vary
with the size of the boat. Typically a 30 to 40 foot boat will
use 5/8-inch line and a 20 to 30 foot boat will use 1/2-inch
line. The number of lines and their configuration will vary
depending on the dock, the range of the tide, and many other
factors. Usually a combination of bow, stern and spring lines
is used to secure the boat.
Maneuvering to the Dock
Approach the dock slowly at a 30 to 40 degree angle.
Whenever possible, approach against the wind or current.
Turn the engines straight & shift to neutral when you feel you
have enough momentum to reach the dock. Use reverse on
the outboard engine while turning the steering wheel towards
the dock to slow the boat and pull the stern toward the dock
as the boat approaches. Straighten the engines and use both
engines to stop the boat if it is still moving forward against
the pilings. If you executed your approach properly, the boat
will lightly touch the pilings at the same time the forward
Securing The Boat Along Side A Dock (Typical)
Securing The Boat In A Slip (Typical)
Bo
w L
ine
Forward Q
uarter Spr
ing Line
After Bow Spring Cleat
Bow Cleat
Stern Cleat
After Bow Spring L
ine
Stern
Line