Dragonfly 32 Swing Wing, Manual

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CONTROLLING THE BOAT:
If this is your first multihull, we highly recommend getting some training in
controlling the boat while sailing as well as motoring (manoeuvring) before
”taking command” and control over the vessel , to ensure your safety and
comfort.
THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT.
Your dealer will give you this first basic information. We strongly advise when
receiving the boat, to get to know the boat well first under easy calm conditions,
especially also manoeuvring the boat under engine, try this out fx
in ”open”
water, by first using a fender or similar and manoeuvre the boat around this
floating object, get to learn how the boat turns, stops and how it manoeuvres in
reverse etc. This is a very very important exercise.
To make good manoeuvres under engine, you ned to use more power to get the
boat turning etc. and the better you know how to handle the boat
– the much
more fun it also is.
This boat is not more difficult to handle than a conventional yacht and many
times easier, but it behaves a bit differently. The propeller is when the boat is
folded very close to the water line, therefore going into reverse is not as efficient
as you may expect. Therefore, do not hesitate to use power in reverse. First
gently to get good propeller grip in the water and then use more power. This
problem is relevant when wind push you from astern.
IMPORTANT – When the boat is in folded position, the boat and propeller is
lifted 8 to 9 cm higher and, when folded, the propeller has even less effect. Test
this out well in controlled conditions, so you really get familiar with this. For your
information, the engine can motor against the wind in up to 30 knots true wind
on flat water and against waves up to 25 knots of wind. If you need to motor
against stronger winds, we recommend assisting with only a bit of jib to assist.
(no sails if folded).
We recommend starting up sailing with max. 4 Beaufort = 20 knots of true wind
till you feel fully comfortable in controlling the boat.
VERY IMPORTANT:
Always before taking the boat out: Pull the centre board fully down for better
manoeuvring, without the centre board down, the boat cannot make a sharp
turn and will drift much quicker, also powered by engine. And again, check that
all float hatches are closed safely.