Boston Whaler 280 Dauntless, Owner'S Manual

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Chapter 2 • General Information
R
280 Dauntless
Certification Design Category
Boats are classified into four categories depending
on their propensity to withstand both the force of the
wind and height of the waves. The categories (A,
B, C, D) are designed to sensitize the boat operator
to navigate safely. The Beaufort Scale is used to
classify the force of the wind ranging from 0 (calm)
to 12 (hurricane). Devised by Francis Beaufort of the
British Navy, the scale offers a uniform description
of the effect of different winds at sea.
A: A recreational craft given design category A
is considered to be designed for winds that may
exceed wind force 8 (on Beaufort scale) and
significant wave heights of 4 meters and above
but excluding abnormal conditions, such as storm,
violent storm, hurricane, tornado and extreme sea
conditions or rogue waves.
B: A recreational craft given design category B
is considered to be designed for a wind force up to,
and including, 8 and significant wave heights up to,
and including 4 meters.
C:
A watercraft given design category C is considered
to be designed a wind force up to, and including 6
and significant wave heights up to, and including,
2 meters.
D:
A watercraft given design category D is considered
to be designed for a wind force up to, and including
4 and significant wave heights up to, and including
0.3 meters, with occasional waves of 0.5 meters.
The significant wave height is considered to be the
primary factor for determining design category. Other
parameters (e.g., meteorological) are descriptions of
when these wave heights may be expected to occur.
Power Capacity
The Specifications and Dimensions table includes
details on the maximum rated power listed for this
vessel. Do not exceed this rating. The various engine
types offered today are more powerful and require
constant maintenance to stay at optimal performance.
Always adjust boat speed and direction according
to the varying sea conditions.
NOTICE
• Do not exceed maximum engine power rating
stated on certification plate.
• Use caution while accelerating and ensure
passengers are safely seated in designated
areas and all gear is stowed securely.
!
WARNING
The 280 Dauntless is designed for a maximum
outboard engine weight of 1400 lbs (635 kg).
NOTICE
NOTICE
The 280 Dauntless is design category C
The operator must read all information regarding
the safety features, warning notices and Mercury
maintenance schedules for safe operation of the
engine.
The engine on this vessel has been tested and proven
to be best suited for general use under normal
conditions and load.
If you are re-powering this vessel, pay particular
attention to the maximum/minimum horsepower
and maximum safe engine weight load this vessel is
rated for. There is a maximum engine weight label
located at the helm.