Axopar 28 OPEN User Manual

Also see for 28 CABIN/AC: User manual

Axopar 28 OPEN User Manual Manual pdf 27 page image

For safe navigation under all weather conditions, proper sound signal-ling equipment in compliance with regulations (COLREG, 1972) mustbe carried on board. Make sure that the sound signalling equipment onyour boat is compliant with these regulations.LEAVING THE JETTYBefore casting off, consider how best to leave the jetty. What is the winddirection? Using a bow thruster, it is easy to move the bow out and thenengage the propeller.If your boat has two engines, it is easy to move away from the jetty byengaging the engine nearer the jetty astern at idling speed and engag-ing the other engine ahead at idling speed on. The boat will swing outfrom the jetty astern. As the bow will move against the jetty, it is impor-tant to fend off properly.With only one engine this can be a little more challenging, especially ifthe wind is pressing the boat firmly against the jetty. Then you have touse a spring to get the stern out. Firmly fend off the bow from the jet-ty. Take a line from the bow around a bollard or cleat, so that it can beeasily let go. Engage idling speed ahead and turn the rudder so that thestern glides out from the jetty. When the boat has reached a position,where it can safely be reversed, release and retrieve the line, quickly cen-tre the rudder and engage astern.CAUTION!Gather in all lines and fenders while you are still in sheltered water. Arope around the propeller can disable a boat.STABILITY AND BUOYANCYAll weight dispositions (for example installing a fishing tower, radar orfurling mast, engine replacement etc.) can have a significant impact onthe stability, trim, and performance of your boat. The bilge water lev-el should be kept at a minimum. The stability of your boat will be com-promised if any weight is placed in a high position. In stormy weatherall hatches, compartments and doors should be kept closed to minimisethe risk of flooding. The stability can be diminished when towing or lift-ing heavy objects using the davit or jib crane. Breaking waves representa serious significant danger to stability.CAUTION!To avoid the risk of flooding, always keep sea valves closed when not inuse. (For example the sea valve for the toilet’s flushing water).DRIVING THE BOATGoing out in a motor boat involves a responsibility, not just to those onboard but also to others we meet on the water. Showing considerationfor others makes boating comfortable. Everyone has the same right tobe at sea, whatever kind of craft they go afloat in.The physical laws that apply to a boat are rather different from thoseaffecting a car, for example. You can influence a boat’s behaviour andthe level of comfort on board primarily by adapting the speed to theprevailing sea conditions and by the intelligent use of the trim tabs. Aplaning boat rides almost level in the water at maximum speed. As thespeed of the boat is reduced the trim angle increases and the bow ris-es slightly. This is normal, and is a prerequisite for good performance.25