ENGLISH
26
WARNING!
Controllability is diminished at speeds above 30
knots. Rapid turns can lead to loss of control. Reduce
speed before sharp turns in whatever direction you
are going.
WARNING!
Waves reduce the boat’s controllability, causing it to
heel. Bear this in mind and reduce speed in a rising
swell.
Learn the rules of navigation, from books and courses, and follow
them. Also observe the requirements of COLREG (Convention on
the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).
Navigate carefully and use new or updated sea charts.
Always adjust your speed in accordance with prevailing condi-
tions and the environment. Bear in mind:
• the state of the sea (ask your passengers for their
opinions on a comfortable speed)
• your own wake (greater when rising to plane, small-
er at displacement speed, i.e., below 6 knots). Ob-
serve prohibitions associated with a swell. Reduce
your speed and your wake as a matter of courtesy,
and also for the safety of yourself and others.
• visibility (islands, fog, rain, blinding sun).
• knowledge of the route (time required for naviga-
tion).
• narrowness of the route (other traffic in the wa-
terway, noise, and the effect of backwash on the
shoreline)
• the space needed for coming to a halt and for eva-
sive manoeuvres.
