MasterCraft NXT20 2023, Owner'S Manual, Page: 17 / 490

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/ 2023 OWNER’S MANUAL
WEIGHT LIMITS
AND DISTRIBUTION
Adding weight of any type to the boat will affect the handling
characteristics of the boat while it is underway. Caution should
always be exhibited when putting the boat into motion or
attempting to stop it, particularly when the added-weight
characteristics have changed.
LINE OF SIGHT
Care should also be taken to avoid interfering with the boat
operator’s line of sight when the boat is underway. This applies
particularly to individuals riding in the bow. It is possible to quite
unintentionally obscure the driver’s view. Even momentary
interference can result in the driver’s inability to respond to a
situation that requires avoidance of another vessel or submerged
or partially-submerged objects. MasterCraft recommends using
the driver seat bolster or standing to maintain a safe lookout
and proper visibility when necessary. Everyone on board should
always pay attention to other vessels, people and objects located
in close proximity to the boat, activities taking place in or near the
water, and should always be supportive of the boat operator.
The law requires the boat operator to maintain clear visibility at
all times and in all directions when the boat is in motion.
All boats have weight limits. Failure to adhere to the posted limits
can cause operation instability and/or the boat to sink. This may
result in serious injury or death, as well as significant damage to
the boat, which will not be covered by warranty.
Overloading a boat may cause it to become unstable and may
potentially result in the boat’s flotation system becoming
overwhelmed. Too much weight can sink any boat. Within this
Owner’s Manual and on a label mounted in each boat is the
Maximum Capacity for that specific model. Bear in mind that
maximum limits include additional water ballast bags and water
put in them, gear brought onto the boat, additional options and all
people. Maximum people is limited to the number of designated
occupant seating positions. Equally critical is how weight is
distributed throughout the boat. The weight must be distributed
evenly throughout the boat. If too much weight is placed in one
area it can have serious impact on maintaining control. Items
and people can also shift positions during operation, potentially
causing a dangerous situation.