3.1.4 Before setting off

Familiarize yourself with this owner's manual and always check at least the following items before leaving:

Weather conditions and forecast

  • Take the wind, waves, and visibility into account. Close all the hull windows and hatches during use to prevent water incursion.

  • Make sure that the design category, size and equipment of your boat, as well as the skills of the driver and crew are adequate for the area and expected weather conditions.

Loading and stability

  • Do not overload the boat.

  • Distribute loads appropriately. Do not place heavy items high up.

  • Check that there is no water in the bilge.

  • Consider that the stability of the boat is reduced if people stand up when on board.

  • Check that all the drain holes are open.

Passengers

  • Ensure that there is a personal floatation device or life jacket for all people on board.

  • Agree crew tasks before setting off.

Fuel and fuel system

  • Make sure that the boat has enough fuel. Keep in mind that rough conditions at sea have an impact on fuel consumption, and that it can increase by more than 30% when compared to calm conditions.

  • As a rule of thumb, aim for there being at least 20% left in the tank when arriving at your destination.

  • Check that there are no fuel leaks.

Engine and manoeuvering equipment

  • Check the functioning and condition of steering, batteries and remote control.

  • Carry out routine checks according to the engine manual.

  • For additional instructions concerning the engine, see the engine manual.

Loose equipment

  • Check that all equipment and heavy items are positioned so that they stay in place during travel at sea and high winds.

  • Note that the seat cushions may fly overboard if they are not fixed properly with press studs.

Nautical charts

  • If you are not navigating in familiar waters, ensure you have nautical charts that cover a large enough area.

  • If your boat is equipped with a chartplotter, familiarize yourself with it before setting off. Ensure that the charts are of the latest edition. 

  • Always keep a paper chart on board, even if you have a chartplotter.

Leaving the berth

  • Agree with the crew about responsibilities for tasks, for example, who will release each mooring line.

  • Be careful not to let mooring lines or the anchoring line tangle in the propeller during manoeuvering.

Mandatory equipment

  • Check that all safety equipment is on board and up to date.

  • What is considered mandatory varies from country to country. Find out what is required for your boat.

Parent topic: Owner's responsibilities