Carver 33 SUPER SPORT, Owner'S Manual

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O
PERATING AND
M
ANEUVERING
3327 12/04
S
ECTION
6
6.2.5 Shallow Water Operation
Always pay attention to the depth of the waters in which you are
cruising. Do not venture into waters which are too shallow for your
boat’s draft. Shallow water navigation can be very hazardous. If you
do find yourself in shallow waters, reduce speed immediately. Con-
sult nautical charts to determine your position. Try to plot a course
out of the shallows through waters deep enough for your boat’s draft.
If your boat runs aground, radio for help and wait until it arrives. Do
not attempt to relaunch your boat. You may do serious damage to
your hull or underwater gear.
6.3 Controlling the Boat
Every boat owner should know how to perform the following procedures
competently. Do not attempt any of these procedures without first re-
ceiving appropriate training.
6.3.1 Loading
When you load items onto the boat, have someone on the pier hand them
to you after you have boarded the boat. Stow all items securely to pre-
vent them from shifting when the boat is in motion. If your boat is loaded
near capacity or if seas get rough, distribute the weight evenly and keep
the load low. Don’t make any abrupt changes in its distribution. Shift the
load or move about only after stopping or slowing the boat.
6.3.2 Casting Off and Docking
Docking and casting off can be hampered by wind and current. It is
important to use the current by approaching or leaving with the current
instead of fighting against it. Also, the operator should adequately fender
his boat against collisions with docks or other boats.
6.3.2.1 Leaving a Pier or Mooring
Getting underway from a pier is normally accomplished by taking in
all lines except the bow spring. With a neutral rudder, power the boat
forward using only the engine farthest from the pier. The boat will
pivot around the bow spring line, moving the stern out and away from
the pier. A fender should be placed between the bow and the pier to
prevent scraping as the boat pivots about the bow spring. Once the
stern is clear of boats and other obstructions, take the bow spring in
and back the boat away.
At marina anchorages, boats are often secured to a mooring buoy. Fouling
your propeller with a mooring line is the principal hazard when leaving a
mooring. If you use a dinghy to reach your boat, make sure the dinghy
line does not foul the propeller.