Weather - Sea Ray 290 Sundancer Owner's Manual

When visibility becomes impaired because of
weather, time of day or high bow angle you must
slow down so that you have sufficient time to react
if an emergency occurs. Nearby boats face similar
risks in avoiding a collision with you.
A. G C
ENERAL ONSIDERATIONS
• Know how your boat handles under different
conditions. Recognize your limitations and the
boat's limitations. Modify speed in keeping with
weather, sea and traffic conditions.
• Instruct passengers on location and use of
safety equipment and procedures.
• Instruct passengers on the fundamentals of
operating your boat in case you are unable to
do so.
• You are responsible for passenger's actions. If
they place themselves or the boat in danger,
immediately correct them.
13. W
EATHER
There are four international design categories of
boats based upon their ability to withstand wind and
sea or water conditions:
A. Ocean
Wind speed: above 40 knots (46 mph)
Wave height: above 4 meters (13 feet)
Boat may be used for extended ocean
voyages.
B. Offshore
Maximum wind speed: 40 knots (46 mph)
Maximum wave height: 4 meters (13 feet)
Boat can be used offshore, but not for
extended ocean voyages.
C. Inshore
Maximum wind speed: 27 knots (31 mph)
Maximum wave height: 2 meters (6.5 feet)
Boat use is limited to coastal waters, large
bays, estuaries, lakes and rivers.
1.8
S 1 • S
ECTION
D. Sheltered waters
Your 290 Sundancer
The wind speed and wave height specified as the
upper limit for your category of boat does not mean
that you or your passengers can survive if your boat
is exposed to these conditions. It is only the most
experienced operators and crew that may be able
to operate a boat safely under these conditions.
You must always be aware of weather conditions
and head for port or protected waters in sufficient
time to avoid being caught in high winds and rough
water. Do not take chances!
Getting caught in severe weather is hazardous. Bad
weather and/or rough sea or water conditions can
cause an unsafe situation. Consult local weather
information, or listen to the NOAA weather reports
for the latest weather conditions or any impending
deterioration of the weather before setting out and
while underway. Following are a few basic weather-
related rules:
•
•
•
•
•
AFETY
Maximum wind speed: 15 knots (18 mph)
Maximum wave height: 0.5 meters (1.5 feet)
Boat use is limited to small lakes, rivers and
canals.
! DANGER
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO BOAT IN
SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS
DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR
GET TO SHORE BEFORE
THE WEATHER TURNS BAD
is Design Category B.
®
Check the weather forecast and the water
conditions before leaving and while underway.
A sudden change in wind direction or speed or an
increase in wave height indicates deteriorating

weather.

Have everyone wear a personal flotation
device.
If a storm approaches, immediately seek a safe
harbor.
If a storm hits, have everyone sit in the cabin or
290 Sundancer
®