Malibu Boats Boat, User Manual, Page: 171 / 206

3-13
Stopping
When stopping the boat, it is important to remember there are no brakes to allow coming
to a complete, immediate stop. To stop your boat, anticipate ahead of time and begin
slowing down by pulling back on the throttle.
Once the throttle is in neutral and the engine has stopped pulling the boat forward, it may
be necessary to pull the throttle into reverse to further slow the forward momentum of the
boat. The reverse thrust of the engine will decrease the forward speed and slow the boat
down to a safer maneuvering speed. Never shift the transmission into reverse if the boat is
moving faster than 2 MPH (3.2 km/h).
Do not use the engine stop switch for normal shut down.
Doing so may impair your ability to restart the engine quickly
or may create a hazardous swamping condition.
Docking
Docking procedures for the new boat owner usually bring surprising results. Remember,
operate your boat at slow speeds to avoid accidents and practice docking to gain
experience and confidence.
Once away from the dock, practice docking in open water with an imaginary dock. Pull
up to the dock at a slow rate of speed. Shift the boat into neutral and drift slowly toward
the dock. Shift the boat into reverse slightly to slow or stop the boat altogether.
Never use your hand, arm or other part of your body between
the dock and boat or attempt to keep the boat from hitting the
dock. The boat could push against the dock, causing severe
injury.
Follow these guidelines when docking:
• Approach docks with the starboard side of the boat if possible.
• Come to a stop a short distance from the dock, then proceed slowly.
• Have fenders, mooring lines and crew ready.
• Observe how the wind and current are moving your boat. Approach the dock
with the boat pointed into the wind, if possible. If the wind or current is pushing
you away from the dock, use a sharper angle of approach. If you must approach
the dock downwind or down current, use a slow speed and shallow angle. Be
ready to reverse to stop and maintain position.
• If there is no wind or current, approach the dock at a 10 to 20 degree angle.
• If possible, throw a line to a person on the dock and have that person secure a
bow line.
• With the bow secure, swing the stern in with the engine, or pull it in with a boat
hook.
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WARNING
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WARNING