21. Dinghy & Outboard
The driver of the dinghy must be over 18, and must at all times be
wearing the kill cord. Never operate the dinghy under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
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Always tow your dinghy on a short line while maneuvering in close
quarters and a long line while sailing in open water, always tow with the
engine tilted forward as it gives you an extra half knot and prevents
unnecessary damage.
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If conditions are very rough, the outboard needs to be mounted on the
push-pit.
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When going ashore for an evenings entertainment allocate a dinghy
captain, someone who will bring the whole crew back to the boat safely,
allowing the rest of the crew to enjoy various local cocktails and
concoctions.
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To start the engine, lower the outboard into the water using the lever on
the starboard side of the engine. The lever position corresponds to the
motor position, up and fwd for towing and back and down for driving.
Check you are in neutral and the safety cord is in place. For starting an
engine that has been at rest for 3 or more hrs use the choke. Pull the
choke out, and set a few revs with the throttle. Do not twist the throttle
trying to prime the engine. You will only flood it. Face the engine and pull
the start cord and push the choke back in as soon as it runs. If it runs for a
second but cuts out, try again without the choke.
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To stop the engine, press the button on top of the kill cord, or pull the kill
cord out.
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Keep the kill cord with you to prevent anyone from borrowing it. You have
been provided with a dinghy lock and cable. Use them.
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Do not drag the dinghy onto a beach; anchor it off or put it on a dock with
a stern anchor to prevent damage from going under or hitting the dock.
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Do not speed in and around other yachts, speeding fines have been
introduced.
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At night an all round white light must be displayed along with red & green
side lights, and it is always a good idea to have a flashlight with you, to
show the way, and warn other vessels of your presence.
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Wear the life preservers provided in the cockpit lockers when in the dinghy.
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Oil to gas ratio: 3oz per 1gallon
