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The effects of unequal propeller thrust, wind and current must also be kept in mind. While wind and current may
not always be present, an experienced boater will use them to his advantage. Unequal thrust is an aspect
shared by all single engine propeller-driven watercraft. A clockwise rotation propeller tends to cause the boat,
steering in the straight ahead position, to drift to starboard when going forward, and to port when going
backward. At high speed, this effect is usually unnoticed, but at slow speed, especially during backing, it can be
powerful. For this reason, many veteran boaters approach the dock with the port side of the boat toward the
dock, if possible.
Stopping (checking headway) is a technique that must be developed. Reverse thrust is used to slow and stop
the boat. The momentum of the boat will vary according to the load as well as the speed. Make it a practice to
slow to idle (no-wake) speed before shifting into reverse.
It is best to learn maneuvering skills in open water away from traffic. Adequate practice is the only way to
develop your boating skills.
RUNNING
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