Docking, Anchoring And Mooring - Monterey M3 Owner's Manual

Operation
NOTICE:
For more instructions on safety, equipment
and boat handling, enroll in one of the sev-
eral free boating courses offered. For infor-
mation on the courses offered in your area,
call the "Boating Course Hotline," 1-800-
368-5647.
NOTICE:
If the running gear hits an underwater ob-
ject, stop the engine. Inspect the propul-
sion system for damage. If the system is
damaged, contact your dealer for a complete
inspection and repair of the unit.
To stop the boat, follow this procedure:
• Allow the engine to drop to idle speed.
• Make sure the shifting lever is in the neutral
position.
NOTICE:
If the engine has been run at high speed for
a long period of time, allow the engine to
cool down by running it in the idle position
for 3 to 5 minutes.
• Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position.
• Raise the trim tabs to the full up position.
After Operation:
• If operating in saltwater, wash the boat and
all equipment with soap and water.
• Check the bilge area for debris and excess
water.
• Fill the fuel tank to near full to reduce con-
densation. Allow enough room in the tank for
the fuel to expand without being forced out
through the vent.
• Turn off all electrical equipment except the
automatic bilge pump.
• If you are going to leave the boat for a long
period of time, put the battery main switch in
the "OFF" position and close all sea cocks.
• Make sure the boat is securely moored.
CAUTION
TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO THE BOAT, CLOSE ALL SEA COCKS
BEFORE LEAVING THE BOAT.
32

2.5 Docking, Anchoring and Mooring

Docking and Dock Lines
Maneuvering the boat near the dock and securing
the boat requires skill and techniques that are
unique to the water and wind conditions and the
layout of the dock. If possible, position a crew
member at the bow and stern to man the lines and
assist in docking operations. While maneuvering
close to the dock, consideration must be giving
to the wind and current. You should anticipate
the effect these forces will have on the boat and
use them to help put the boat where you want
it. It is important to practice in open water using
an imaginary dock enough to develop a sense for
the way your boat handles in a variety of dock-
ing scenarios. You must be able to foresee the
possibilities and have solutions in mind before
problems occur.
Approaching a dock or backing into a slip in high
winds or strong currents requires a considerable
amount of skill. If you are new to boat handling,
you should take lessons from an experienced
operator to learn how to maneuver your boat in
tight quarters in less than ideal conditions. You
should also practice away from the dock during
windy conditions.
Dock lines are generally twisted or braided nylon.
Nylon is strong and stretches to absorb shock. It
also has a long life and is soft and easy on the
hands. The line's size will vary with the size of the
boat. Typically a 30 to 40 foot boat will use 5/8-
inch line and a 20 to 30 foot boat will use 1/2-inch
line. The number of lines and their configuration
will vary depending on the dock, the range of the
tide, and many other factors. Usually a combi-
nation of bow, stern and spring lines is used to
secure the boat.
Maneuvering to the Dock
Approach the dock slowly at a 30 to 40 degree
angle. Whenever possible, approach against the
wind or current. Turn the outdrive straight & shift
to neutral when you feel you have enough mo-
mentum to reach the dock. Use reverse on the
engine while turning the steering wheel toward the
dock to slow the boat and pull the stern toward
the dock as the boat approaches. Straighten the
outdrive and use the engine to stop the boat if
it is still moving forward against the pilings. If
you executed your approach properly, the boat
will lightly touch the pilings at the same time the
forward momentum is stopped. Have the dock
lines ready and secure the boat as soon at it
stops. Use fenders to protect the boat while it is
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