Malibu Boats 21 VLX, Owner'S Manual

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Shallow Water Operation
Shallow water brings on obvious hazards such as sand bars, stumps, rocks, etc. Know the area in which you
will be operating the boat. Grounding the vessel or striking submerged objects can result in serious injury or
death and can cause severe damage to your watercraft. At high speed, this can cause rapid deceleration or stop
your boat abruptly, which may cause occupants to impact the interior of the boat or be ejected. Stick to deeper
water whenever possible, and if you must travel in shallow water, proceed at low speed and post a lookout.
Know the minimal depth your boat can safely travel.
Warning Markers
Learn to recognize the different buoys and day markers; they are used as the signposts of the waterways
identifying navigable routes and water hazards. It is a good idea to ask local authorities about hazard areas and if
they are marked. Stay within boundaries and clear of hazards.
Weeds
Weeds can generally be a threat to a boat’s engine and other components on the boat. If weeds wrap around
the propeller, they can create vibration in the engine. They also can restrict water intakes or clog the water filter,
causing the engine to overheat. Learn to recognize the typical normal operating temperature range for your
engine. If temperature rises high above normal, then check for blockage of the engine cooling water system.
Weeds can sometimes be removed by shifting to NEUTRAL, pausing for a
moment, then shifting to REVERSE to unwind the weeds from the propeller.
Dam Spillways
The area around dam spillways is very hazardous and conditions can change rapidly. Keep clear of the
spillways and areas below dams. Currents created by spillways can draw in objects, including your boat.
Restricted Areas
Before boating, check with Local, State, and Federal authorities to identify restricted areas. Because of the
threat of terrorism, the U.S. Coast Guard has and will continue to implement strict limits on watercraft near U.S.
Navy and Coast Guard ships and other potential targets.
Weather/Seas
Learn and understand weather patterns and signs of change. Bad weather can cause an uncomfortable
and unsafe situation. If a storm approaches, seek a safe harbor. Check forecasts before getting underway and
continue to monitor conditions while on the water.
Environmental Concerns
As a boater, you already appreciate nature’s beauty and the peace of the great outdoors. It is a boater’s
responsibility to protect the natural environment by keeping waterways clean.
Foreign Species
If you trailer your boat from lake to lake, you have the potential of unknowingly introducing a foreign aquatic
species from one lake to the next. It is important to thoroughly clean the bottom of the boat below the water
line, remove all weeds and algae, and drain the bilge, ballast, and livewells before launching the boat in a new
body of water. Check local, state, country agencies as to laws and regulations.
2020 Malibu Boats LLC • Owner’s Manual • Page 25