Date of Purchase: ___________________________________________________
The warranty may be transferred only once
of the transfer fee* is indicated on the warranty statement of the Warranty Registration Card. Transfer of
the remainder of the warranty must occur within five (5) years of the original retail sale. The transfer fee
must be paid within fifteen (15) days of purchase of the used boat by check, money order or cashier’s
check payable to Four Winns Boats.
This warranty registration request if accepted, transfers the warranty coverage remaining on the boat to
the new purchaser. Acceptance of this request does not create any additional warranties or obligation on
Four Winns.
NOTE: For warranty transfer please use the Warranty
Transfer Request Form also included in front of manual.
PLEASE FOLD IN HALF & SEAL.
PLACE
STAMP
PLEASE
PLACE
PLEASE
HERE.
HERE.
STAMP
925 Frisbie Street
Four Winns L.L.C.
Cadillac, MI 49601
Attn: Customer Service Department.
TO:
PLACE
STAMP
PLEASE
HERE.
925 Frisbie Street
Four Winns L.L.C.
Cadillac, MI 49601
Attn: Customer Service Department.
TO:
925 Frisbie Street
Four Winns L.L.C.
Cadillac, MI 49601
TO:
Attn: Customer Service Department.
™
378
PREFACE
This manual will acquaint you with the use and maintenance of your new Four Winns boat. This manual also
provides special information critical to the safety of the passengers, and longevity of the equipment. The information on the following page lists the graphics used to increase the visibility of these important messages. Also
included in your owner’s packet is the “Boating Basics, A Guide to Responsible Boating”. This publication
covers the boating basics and should be read along with your Four Winns Owner’s Manual before operating your
boat. Review this information completely before using your new boat.
Four Winns continually strives to improve its products. Unit specifications, including standard and optional
equipment are constantly being modified. Equipment availability is also subject to change without notice.
The most current and accurate information available at the time of publication is included in this manual.
Some variation in material, equipment, description, location, and details can result.
The information in this manual focuses upon the equipment designed and manufactured by Four Winns on
specific models. When appropriate, please utilize the information pertinent to your specific boat model.
Equipment such as engines, and other accessories are manufactured by others. The information provided in
this manual is intended to be used in conjunction with the information provided by the manufacturers of
this equipment. All information available at the time of manufacture has been included with your owner’s
packet. In many cases, replacement of manufacturer’s literature may be obtained via their respective Internet
website.
Read this entire manual carefully before operating your new boat. Many instructions may require direct
performance of the activity to fully understand the correct method. If you choose to read this manual at home,
remember to take it to the boat with you.
Your Four Winns dealer knows your boat best and is interested in your complete satisfaction. Return to the
dealer for service or other assistance. If you find it necessary to contact Four Winns directly, please refer to the
address information listed below. Be sure to include the boat model, hull identification number, your daytime
telephone number, and specifics of the information desired.
This manual has been specifically developed for the Vista™ models. Please record the model and hull identification number information below.
This manual should be considered part of the boat. Should you sell the boat, pass this manual on to the new
owner. Take special care of this manual. Certain information in this manual may not be available in a replacement manual. An electronic version of this manual may be viewed on our website at www.fourwinns.com.
Thank you for joining the Four Winns family. We appreciate your purchase and welcome the opportunity to
demonstrate our commitment to you.
Congratulations on your new boat purchase and welcome to our boating family!
We want your boating experience to be the most enjoyable possible. The more you know about your new
boat, the more you’ll enjoy the time you spend aboard. That’s why we prepared this manual. It’s your guide for
safe operation as well as understanding your boat’s system and equipment. It has been written for the beginning boater but experienced boaters will find helpful information as well. Be sure to read the contents thoroughly.
The popularity of boating and other water sports has grown tremendously in the past few years. Because of
this, safety is an important issue for everyone who shares our waterways.
Remember that along with the freedom and exhilaration of boating comes the responsibility that you have for
the safety of your passengers and the other boaters who share the water with you. Throughout this manual,
specific precautions and symbols identify safety-related information. Be sure to pay close attention to them.
This symbol means “pay attention!” Here is important information for your safety. If you don’t follow
these instructions, you can damage your boat, hurt yourself or someone else or, even worse, have a
fatal accident.
This symbol and signal word indicate a potentially hazardous situation. If you ignore this safety
message, property damage or minor or moderate personal injury MAY or CAN result.
This symbol and signal word indicate a potential hazard. If you ignore this safety message, serious
injury or death CAN result.
This symbol and signal word indicates an immediate hazard. If you ignore this safety message,
serious personal injury or death WILL result.
IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR NEW BOAT
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and a wide variety of components contain or
emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects and other reproductive harm. In addition, oils, fuels and fluids contained in boats as well as waste produced by
component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your
hands after handling. Used engine oil contains chemicals that have caused cancer in laboratory
animals. Always protect your skin by washing thoroughly with soap and water.
The precautions in this manual can’t and don’t cover every boating situation. If a specific method or procedure is not recommended, you must make sure that what you do is safe for you and others. Always use
common sense when boating! Remember to make sure that every safe boating excursion is a happy experience.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Preface
Page 2
™
378
We’d also like to remind you to be kind to our environment while you’re boating. Don’t throw garbage and other refuse
overboard. Do your best to keep harmful compounds like gasoline, oil and antifreeze out of the water. Please see the
notifications below:
DISCHARGE OF OIL PROHIBITED
THE FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ACT PROHIBITS THE
DISCHARGE OF OIL OR OILY WASTE INTO OR UPON THE NAVIGABLE WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES, OR THE WATERS OF THE
CONTIGUOUS ZONE, OR WHICH MAY EFFECT NATURAL RESOURCES BELONGING TO, APPERTAINING TO, OR UNDER THE EXCLUSIVE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY OF THE UNITED STATES, IF
SUCH DISCHARGE CAUSES A FILM OR DISCOLORATION OF THE
SURFACE OF THE WATER OR CAUSES A SLUDGE OR EMULSION
BENEATH THE SURFACE OF THE WATER. VIOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO SUBSTANTIAL CIVIL PENALTIES AND/OR CRIMINAL SANCTIONS INCLUDING FINES AND IMPRISONMENT.
Oil Discharge Plate - (Specific Models Only - Location Not Shown)
Trash Overboard Decal - (Specific Models Only - Location Not Shown)
The information contained in the owner’s packet has been compiled to help you operate your boat with
safety and pleasure. It contains the details of the boat, the equipment supplied or fitted, its systems, and
information on its operation and maintenance. Please read the information carefully and familiarize yourself with the boat before using it.
If this is your first boat, or if you are changing to a type of boat you are not familiar with, for your own
comfort and safety, please ensure that you obtain handling and operating experience before “assuming
command” of the boat. Your dealer or national sailing federation or yacht club will be pleased to advise you
of local sea schools and competent instructors.
PLEASE KEEP THE MANUAL AND ALL OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION IN A SECURE PLACE,
AND HAND IT OVER TO THE NEW OWNER WHEN YOU SELL THE BOAT.
Vista™ Owner’s ManualPreface
Page 3
™
LABEL LOCATIONS
The NMMA Yacht Certification plate and various warning labels are placed at different locations on your
Vista™ for your safety. Additional warnings for fuel leakage, blower operation, and other important information will be imprinted or located on the dash. Many of these stickers and labels are not required by the U.S.
Coast Guard but are important to ensure the safe operation of your Four Winns® boat. In addition, the Hull
Identification Number plate is permanently attached below the deck-hull joint on the starboard aft corner.
NOTICE
Not all of the warning label stickers are depicted in the following pages. Some of these
stickers will be found on appliances i.e. microwave, TV, DVD player, generator, shore power
cord. Be sure to read and follow all manufacturer’s literature and warning label(s) relating to
their product(s).
Below are locations along with the descriptions of some of the labels found on the boat. Please note that
actual locations may vary depending on which model you have. See the following pages for the actual
wording of each of these various warning labels found on your boat. Additional labels are also included
however the locations may not be shown nor may they be applicable to your particular model.
SAMPLE - Capacity Label (See Actual Capacity Plate
Affixed to Boat for Actual Capaities if Applicable.
Gasolone Vapors - Blower Warning Label
Replaces Capacity Label on Certain Specific Models Only.
NMMA Yacht Certification Plate
WARNING
GASOLINE VAPORS CAN EXPLODE RESULTING
IN INJURY OR DEATH. BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
-CHECK ENGINE BILGE COMPARTMENT FOR
GASOLINE OR VAPORS, AND
-OPERATE BLOWER FOR FOUR MINUTES, AND
VERIFY BLOWER OPERATION.
RUN BLOWER WHEN VESSEL IS OPERATING BE-
LOW CRUISING SPEED.
Shaft Alignment Tag (Inboard Models Only)
Vista™ Owner’s ManualPreface
CAUTION
ENGINES MUST BE ALIGNED
AND COUPLINGS SECURED
PRIOR TO COMMISSIONING.
Page 5
™
Ensure slings are in proper location as indicated by the sling label location. Failure to do so may result
in permanent hull structure damage and will invalidate the hull structure warranty.
FLOA T PLAN ........................................................................................................................................... 1
SERVICE LOG ....................................................................................................................................... 1-3
SERVICE INFORMA TION ......................................................................................................................... 1
LOCA TOR DRAWINGS ........................................................................................................................... 1-5
Before starting the boat, become familiar with all of the
various systems and related operations. Be sure all
necessary safety equipment is on-board. Know the
“Rules of the Road”. Have an experienced operator brief
you on the general operation of your new boat. Perform
a “pre-cruise systems check”. This manual is a part of
your boat’s equipment. Always keep it on board.
A - 2COMPONENT SYSTEMS
Before you can really enjoy your boat, a thorough understanding of its systems and their operation is essential. This manual and the associated manufacturers information are included in the owner’s packet. This information is provided to enhance your knowledge of the
boat. Read this information carefully.
After becoming familiar with the boat and its systems,
reread this manual and other material provided in the
owner’s packet. Maintenance and service tips are included to help keep the boat in like-new condition.
A - 3SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Besides the equipment installed on the boat by
Four Winns, L.L.C., certain other equipment is required
for passenger safety. A booklet listing the Federal equipment requirements is included in the owner’s packet or
is available through your local U.S. Coast Guard Station. Remember that these laws are for your protection
and are minimum requirements. Check your local and
state regulations, also. More information on safety
equipment is provided in Section B.
Items like a sea anchor, working anchor, extra dock lines,
flare pistol, a line permanently secured to your ring buoy,
etc. could at some time save your passengers lives, or
save your boat from damage.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a “Courtesy Examination.” This inspection will confirm the boat is equipped
with all of the necessary safety equipment.
A - 4PASSENGER SAFETY
You are responsible for the safety of your passengers
as well as for their behavior while aboard. Make sure:
1. Each passenger is properly instructed in Personal
Flotation Device (PFD) use and keeps one within
reach in case of emergency. All non-swimmers and
children should wear a PFD at all times when underway.
2. Passengers do not sit on gunwales, open decks,
elevated pedestal seats or on seat backs when the
boat is underway. This could cause them to be
thrown overboard during a sudden maneuver.
3. At least one other person knows how to operate the
boat in case of an emergency.
A - 5“RULES OF THE ROAD”
As in driving an automobile, there are a few rules that
must be known if safe boating operation is to be maintained. The Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Department of Natural Resources or your local boat club
sponsor courses in boat handling, including “rules of the
road”. Such courses are strongly recommended. Books
on this subject are also available from local libraries.
A - 6LIGHTNING
When boating, it is important to be aware of the weather
around you. When the weather changes for the worse,
DO NOT jeopardize your safety by trying to “ride out the
storm”. If possible, return to safe harbor and dock your
vessel immediately.
If caught in a storm, seek shelter inside the cabin and
wait for the storm to pass. With open bow models,
suntops and campers will provide some protection, but
should not be relied on if you are able to return to shore.
Exercise care when high winds are present!
NOTICE
Four Winns boats are not equipped with a lightning protection system.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Section A
Page 1
DO NOT swim or dangle legs or arms into the
water during a lightning storm. Stay out of the
water!
Lightning will seek a ground when it strikes. Avoid contact with metal parts such as bow rails, control handle,
or windshield.
A - 7DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
™
2. Be sure all necessary safety equipment is on board
and operative. This includes items such as the running lights, horn, spotlight, life saving devices, etc.
3. Check the bilge water level and bilge pump operation. Check the engine and drive fluid levels. Look
for other signs of potential problems. Check for the
scent of fuel fumes.
4. Activate the Bilge Blower. Check the blower output.
Please keep in mind that along with the fun of boating
comes responsibility. As the owner or operator of a pleasure boat, you are obligated (morally and legally) to use
good judgement while underway in providing for the
safety and well-being of your passengers and other boaters around you.
A common and flagrant violation of good judgement and
the law by mariners involves the use of alcohol or drugs.
Each year, about half of all accidents involving fatalities
involve the use of alcohol or drugs.
It is a federal offense to operate a boat while intoxicated.
Criminal penalties may include the termination of operating privileges for up to one year. Many states have
passed similar laws.
Alcohol or drugs have an inhibiting effect on the judgement and reaction time of the boat operator and his/her
passengers. Heed the advice of experts and statisticians...DO NOT drink or use drugs when operating a
boat. NEVER allow an obviously intoxicated person to
take the helm.
Have fun in your Four Winns® boat, but also have the
good sense to be mentally alert and physically capable
of operating the boat in a safe manner.
Gasoline vapors can explode resulting in injury or death. Before starting the engine, check
engine compartment bilge for gasoline or vapors. Operate blower for four minutes, and
verify blower operation. ALWAYS run the
blower when the vessel is operating below
cruising speed.
5. Ensure an adequate amount of fuel is on board.
6. Be sure you have sufficient water and other provisions on board for the cruise planned.
7. Leave a written message listing details of the planned
cruise with a close friend ashore.
B. After Starting The Engine
1. Visibly check the engine to be sure there are no apparent water or oil leaks.
2. Check the gauges. Make sure the oil pressure, water temperature, voltmeter, etc. are reading normally.
3. Have a safe cruise and enjoy yourself.
A - 8PRE-CRUISE SYSTEMS CHECK
Before leaving the dock, the following items should be
checked:
A. Before Starting The Engine
1. Check the weather forecast. Determine if the cruise
planned can be made safely.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Always be sure to raise the anchor and ensure
the chain stop is engaged prior to operating
your boat. Failure to raise and secure anchor
before getting underway could result in damage to boat and even severe injury or death
from a rebounding anchor.
A - 9ENGINE OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
Notice: Consult engine manual. Additional engine information is located in
Section T.
Section A
Page 2
™
A. Before Starting
1. Check the engine compartment for water, gas, and/
or oil leaks of any kind. Keep the bilge in a clean
condition to prevent blower and bilge pump damage, and fire hazards.
2. Check the fluid levels of the engine oil and power
steering system daily. Fill oil or steering fluid as required by the indications on the dip sticks. Refer to
the Table 1: “SAE Viscosity Chart - Gas” and your
engine manual included in the owner’s packet. DO
NOT USE MULTIGRADE OIL.
IF THE LOWEST
ANTICIPATED
TEMPERATURE IS*
O
32
F (0o C) and above
O
0
F (-18O C) to 32O F (0O C)
O
Below 0
*Temperature range you expect to operate.
Note: Use only single viscosity oils.
F (-18O C)
Table 1: SAE Viscosity Chart - Gas
THE FOLLOWING
SAE VISCOSITY OILS
ARE RECOMMENDED
SAE 30
SAE 20W-20
SAE 10W
B. Cold Engine Start (Carbureted Engines)
1. The engine may require priming prior to starting. To
prime the engine, proceed as follows:
a. Place ignition switch in the OFF position.
b. Disengage shift mechanism.
c.Move control handle to the full throttle position;
this operates accelerator pump and primes the
engine.
d. Repeat priming, if necessary.
e. Return the control handle to fast idle position.
2. Turn key switch to START position and hold until
engine starts. DO NOT hold in START position for
more than ten seconds. In colder weather, more
priming may be necessary. However, too much
priming may flood engine.
If engine floods:
•Disengage shift. Move handle to full throttle position.
Diesel engines use a Series IIID oil, SAE15W/40.
Refer to your diesel engine owner’s manual for further information.
Power steering and power trim use automatic transmission fluid. Check the fluid levels in the vertical
drive units or transmission as often as practical.
The hydraulic steering uses a fluid which meets Mil
H5606 specifications. Please note that automatic
transmission fluid (Dexron II) may be used in an
emergency. Never use brake fluid. Check the fluid
level of the transmission as often as practical.
3. Start and operate the bilge blower system for at least
four (4) minutes before start-up.
4. Lower the vertical outdrive units (on applicable models) making sure the water intakes are under the
water.
•Turn key switch to the START position.
•Immediately move the control handle to the idle position when the engine starts.
NOTICE
Failure to move the control handle to the idle
position immediately when engine starts will allow engine to “over-rev” and engine damage
could result. “Over-revving” engine after offseason storage could also damage the water
pump impeller. When starting engine for the
first time after off-season storage, always
idle engine for one minute to allow the water pump to prime.
3. As soon as engine starts:
a. Release key to the ON or RUN position.
b. Move control handle to the fast idle position to
warm up engine. DO NOT exceed 2000 RPM.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Section A
Page 3
™
C. Warm Engine Starting (Carbureted Engines)
1. Move control handle to the neutral detent position.
2. Turn key switch to START position and hold until
engine starts, but DO NOT hold in start position for
more than ten seconds. If engine does not start, let
go momentarily, then try again.
3. As soon as engine starts, release key to the ON or
RUN position.
NOTICE
NEVER turn key to START position when engine is running.
D. Cold / Warm Engine Start (EFI) - Stern Drives
1. Move the control handle to NEUTRAL detent
position.
2. Turn the key switch to start and hold until engine
starts, for no longer than 10 seconds. If engine
does not start, let go momentarily, then try again.
2b. For diesel engines, you must first turn the ignition
key to the ON position and wait 30 seconds, allowing preheaters to activate. After 30 seconds, turn
key switch to START position and hold until engine
starts. DO NOT hold in START position for more
than ten seconds.
3. As soon as engine starts, release key to ON or
RUN.
If engine floods:
NOTICE
Failure to move the throttl e handle to the idle
position immediately when engine starts will allow engine to “over-rev” and engine damage
could result. “Over-revving” engine after offseason storage could also damage the water
pump impeller. When starting engine for the
first time after off-season storage, always
idle engine for one minute to allow the water pump to prime.
3. As soon as engine starts:
a. Release key to the ON or RUN position.
NOTICE
Priming is not necessary for EFI engines. Refer to the engine owner’s manual for additional
information.
E. Cold Engine Start (EFI Engines) - Inboards
1. Move the twin lever shifter to the neutral detent
position. Place the twin lever throttle levers in the
idle position. See Figure A1. When in the neutral
detent, the detent buttons will click into place. To
move the levers to the desired positions after starting you simply push or pull the shifter and throttle
levers. The buttons are color coded. Black buttons represent the shifter and red buttons represent the throttles.
Twin Lever -
Single Action
Control
(w/ Black Buttons)
Twin Lever -
Single Action
Throttle
(w/ Red Buttons)
•Disengage shift. Move handle to full throttle position.
•Turn key switch to the START position.
•Imm ediately move the throttle levers to the idle position when the engine starts.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Figure A1: Inboard Helm Station
2a. For gasoline engines, turn key switch to START
position and hold until engine starts. DO NOT hold
in START position for more than ten seconds.
Section A
Page 4
™
2b. For diesel engines, you must first turn the ignition
key to the ON position and wait 30 seconds, allowing preheaters to activate. After 30 seconds, turn
key switch to START position and hold until engine
starts. DO NOT hold in START position for more
than ten seconds.
If engine floods:
•The shifter levers remain in the neutral detent po-
sition. Move throttle levers to full throttle position.
•Turn key switch to the START position.
•Immediately move the throttle levers to the idle po-
sition when the engine starts.
NOTICE
Failure to move the throttle handle to the idle
position immediately when engine starts will allow engine to “over-rev” and engine damage
could result. “Over-revving” engine after offseason storage could also damage the water
pump impeller. When starting engine for the
first time after off-season storage, always
idle engine for one minute to allow the water pump to prime.
3. As soon as engine starts:
a. Release key to the ON or RUN position.
NOTICE
Priming is not necessary for EFI engines. Refer to the engine owner’s manual for additional
information.
F. Warm Engine Start (EFI Engines) - Inboards
3. As soon as engine starts, release key to the ON or
RUN position.
NOTICE
NEVER turn key to START position when engine is running.
G. Shifting and Control Speed
NOTICE
If your boat is equipped with a non-OEM remote
control system, ask your dealer how to properly
operate it.
1. Move shifter lever(s) to the neutral detent position
and throttle levers (if applicable) to the idle position. Placing the shifter levers in the neutral detent
positio n will engage neutral start switch and allow
engine to start.
DO NOT shift into FORWARD or REVERSE unless engine is running. Damage to the shift system could result from trying to shift without the
engine running. Carefully check function of all
control and engine systems before leaving the
dock.
2. To go FORWARD - Briskly move the shifter lever(s)
forward. Once forward gear engagement is complete, push throttle lever(s) forward until desired
speed is achieved.
3. To go in REVERSE - Briskly move the shifter lever(s)
rearward. Once rearward gear engagement is complete, push throttle lever(s) forward until desired
speed is achieved.
1. Move shifter levers to the neutral detent position
and throttle levers to the idle position.
2a. Turn key switch to START position and hold until
engine starts, but DO NOT hold in start position for
more than ten seconds. If engine does not start, let
go momentarily, then try again.
2b. For diesel engines, you must first turn the ignition
key to the ON position and wait 30 seconds, allowing preheaters to activate. After 30 seconds, turn
key switch to START position and hold until engine
starts. DO NOT hold in START position for more
than ten seconds.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
DO NOT shift from forward to reverse when the
boat is planing.
NOTICE
DO NOT shift if engine speed is above 800 RPM.
4. To go from FORWARD to REVERSE, or REVERSE
to FORWARD; always pause at NEUTRAL and allow engine speed to return to idle.
5. After shifting is completed, slowly push throttle
lever(s) forward until desired speed is achieved.
Section A
Page 5
Any time the boat is operated, be aware of
changes in shift system operation. A sudden
increase in shift effort of the shifter levers, or
other abnormal operation, indicates a possible
problem in the shift system. If this occurs, the
following precautions must be taken:
•With engine running and boat securely tied
to the dock, shift drive into forward and reverse to ensure there is gear engagement.
•When docking the boat, all docking maneuvers must be performed at slow speed. Pay
special attention to other boaters. Passengers should be informed of potential problems and precautions taken.
™
Four Winns® boats are not designed nor intended to be
used as a towing vessel. The mooring cleats on
Four Winns® boats are not designed or intended to be
used for towing purposes. These cleats are specifically
designed as mooring cleats for securing the boat to a
dock, pier, etc. DO NOT use these fittings for towing or
attempting to free a grounded vessel.
Freeing a grounded vessel or towing a boat that is disabled requires specialized equipment and knowledge.
Line failure and structural damage caused by improper
towing have resulted in fatal injuries. Because of this,
Four Winns strongly suggests that these activities be left
to those who have the equipment and knowledge such
as the U.S. Coast Guard or Sea Tow, to safely accomplish the towing task.
If you suspect there is a problem, see your MerCruiser®
or Volvo Penta® dealer as soon as possible for proper
diagnosis and required service or adjustment. Continued operation could result in damage to the shift mechanism and loss of control.
H. Stopping Engine
1. Move shifter lever(s) to the NEUTRAL position.
Place throttle levers (if applicable) in idle position.
2. Turn ignition key to the OFF position.
NOTICE
DO NOT stop engine at speeds above idle or
“speed up” engine while turning off ignition. Engine damage could result.
A - 10 GROUNDING AND TOWING
If the boat should become disabled, or if assist-
ing another craft that is disabled, great care must
be taken. The stress applied to a boat during
towing may become excessive. Excessive
stress can damage the structure of the boat and
create a safety hazard for those aboard.
Running aground can cause serious damage to
a boat and associated underwater gear. If the
boat should become grounded, distribute personal flotation devices and inspect the boat for
possible damage. Thoroughly inspect the bilge
area for signs of leakage. An experienced service facility should check the hull and underwater
gear at the first opportunity. DO NOT continue
to use the boat if the condition of the hull or underwater equipment is questionable.
If towing or being towed is absolutely necessary, use
the strongest lines available, and attach them to the bow
eyes or stern eyes only. Have all passengers slip on life
jackets and take a seat in the cabin or other protected
area.
Lines can snap or other hardware can be loosened or broken while towing. Under certain conditions, this can cause severe injury or fatality.
A - 11 BOATING EDUCATION
A. Boating Courses
Boating education classes are offered throughout the
country. The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary offers
free courses on different topics usually during the offseason. The most popular course is the “Boating Skills
& Seamanship Course,” and information can be obtained
by calling 1-800-336-BOAT.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Section A
Page 6
™
The United States Power Squadron also offers free
courses ranging from basic seamanship to celestial navigation. For information, contact your local Power Squadron, or write: U.S.P.S., P.O. Box 30423, Raleigh, NC
27622.
The Red Cross offers power boating and canoeing
classes. Contact: Director of Water Safety, American
National Red Cross, 17th & D Streets N.W., Washington, DC 20006.
The Canadian Power and Sail Squadron offers seamanship courses. Information can be obtained by calling
1-800-268-3579 (Canada only).
B. Boating Manuals and Literature
A good source of information is the U.S. Coast Guard’s
home study book called “The Skipper’s Course”. This
book may be purchased through: Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, Stock # 050-012-00159-6.
Another good source of boating information is Chapman’s
“Piloting, Seamanship and Small Boat Handling”. Also,
check the local library or bookstore for additional information on boating.
C. Charts and Maps
U.S. nautical charts are sold throughout the country at
Governmental Printing Office stores and other agents.
A chart catalog is available by writing to: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean
Survey, Rockville, MD 20852.
In addition, many federal agencies publish recreational
maps, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the
Forest Service, the National Park Service, and the Tennessee Valley Authority.
D. Laws and Regulations
The U.S. Coast Guard is the authority of the waterways;
they are there to help the boating public. State boating
regulations are enforced by local authorities. You are
subject to marine traffic laws and “Rules of the Road” for
both federal and state waterways; you must stop if signaled to do so by enforcement officers, and permit to be
boarded if asked.
There are many pamphlets, prepared by the Coast
Guard, available to you. These pamphlets explain “Rules
of the Road,” signal lights, buoys, safety, international
and inland regulations and other information which goes
beyond the scope of this manual. For more information
contact your local U.S. Coast Guard Unit or call the Coast
Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647.
A - 12 BOAT OWNER REGISTRATION
Federal and state laws require that every boat equipped
with propulsion machinery of any type must be registered in the primary state of usage. Registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed on the
boat according to regulations. In most states, this means
registration with the designated state agency. In a few
jurisdictions, the Coast Guard retains registration authority. Your dealer will either supply registration forms or
tell you where they may be obtained. The registration
agency will issue you a certificate that must be carried
on board when the boat is in use. Some states require
additional registration when an out of state boat is used
within their boundaries.
Your boat has a hull identification number on the starboard side of the hull. Figure A2 shows a typical identification number. Use this hull identification number for registration and to identify your boat for warranty service.
Addresses of all state boating agencies are listed in “A
Boater’s Guide”. For a free copy, write to: National Marine Manufacturers Association, 401 N. Michigan Avenue,
Chicago, IL 60611.
Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Section A
Page 7
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