Wave And Wake Jumping - Mercury 10/15 Sea Pro/Marathon - 6/8/9.9/10/15 HP User Manual

Wave And Wake Jumping

Operating recreational boats over waves and wake is a natural part of
boating. However, when this activity is done with sufficient speed to force
the boat hull partially or completely out of the water, certain hazards arise,
particularly when the boat re-enters the water.
The primary concern is the boat changing direction while in the midst of the
jump. In such case the landing may cause the boat to veer violently in a
new direction. Such a sharp change in direction can cause occupants to
be thrown out of their seats, or out of the boat.
Avoid serious injury or death from being thrown within or out of a boat
when it lands after jumping a wave or wake. Avoid wave or wake jumping
whenever possible. Instruct all occupants that if a wake or wave jump
occurs, get low and hang on to a boat hand hold.
There is another less common hazardous result from allowing your boat to
launch off a wave or wake. If the bow of your boat pitches down far enough
while airborne, upon water contact it may penetrate under the water surface
and submarine for an instant. This will bring the boat to a nearly
instantaneous stop and can send the occupants flying forward. The boat
may also steer sharply to one side.
GENERAL INFORMATION
WARNING
!
22
ob00314