Regal 23 OBX Owner's Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
23 OBX
OWNER’S MANUAL
REGAL# 221734
23 OBX
12-2015
Your Regal Owner’s Manual 9 General Information 9 Regal Warranty 19
1 SAFETY ON BOARD
Safety Labels 23 General Boating Safety 25 Required Safety Equipment 29 Fire Extinguisher 32 Visual Distress Signals 34 Sound Protecting Devices 37 Navigation Lights 37 Pollution Regulations 39 Exhaust & Carbon Monoxide 43 Boating Under The Infl uence 46 Boating Accidents 48 Water Sports 50 Weather & Water Conditions 55
2 RULES OF THE ROAD
4 SYSTEMS
Bilge/Drainage 95 Electrical 97 Fuel 104 Waste 109
5 VESSEL OPERATION
Getting Underway 110 Fueling 112 Starting & Stopping 115 Steering 117 Fenders 118 Dock Line Basic 119 Steps To Docking 122 Outboard Maneuvering 124 Trim Angle 127 Anchoring 132 Emergencies 136 First Aid 137 Hypothermia 138 Environmental Awareness 139
Navigation Rules Defi ned 58 Navigation Rules 59 Night Running 66 Bridge Clearance 67
3 ENGINES & CONTROLS
Outboard Engine 68 Outboard Drive Unit 81 Propellers 82 Instrumentation 84 Remote Control 87 Steering 92
Table Of Contents
6
EQUIPMENT OPERATION
Battery Switch 141 Bow Filler Cushion 147 Bow Walk-Thru Doors 148 Bilge Pump 149 Canvas 150 Cockpit Carpet 155 Cockpit Seagrass Carpet 156 Cockpit Table 157 Depth Finder 158 Docking Lights 162 Drain Plug 163 Fender Clips 164 Horn 165 Power Tower 166 Seats/Hatch/Storage 170 Ski Tow 175 Stereo 176 Swim Platform/Ladder 178 Toilet 180 Underwater Lighting 182 Windshield 183
7 COSMETIC CARE & MAINTENANCE
Cosmetic Care 186 Maintenance 196
8 TROUBLESHOOTING
Diagnostic Charts 221
9 STORAGE/WINTERIZATION
Decommissioning Checklist 232 Recommissioning Checklist 235
10 TRAILERING
Before Towing 237 Driving 242 Launching 243 Loading Boat 245
11 GLOSSARY & INDEX
Glossary 247 Index 251
12 TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Introduction 255 Drawings 258
Welcome To Regal
Dear Regal Owner,
I know I speak for everyone at Regal when I wel­come you to the ever-growing family of Regal boat owners. You’ve chosen a craft that is recognized worldwide for its standard of excellence. Each step in construction has been carefully scrutinized to assure comfort, performance, reliability and safety for both your passengers and yourself.
Your boat is certified by the National Marine Man­ufacturers Association. It also complies with the applicable standards set by the United States Coast Guard and the American Boat and Yacht Council. Your Regal boat was built with the same attention to detail and quality of construction that we would expect in a boat we would purchase ourselves.
Whether you’re a veteran boater or a newcomer, we strongly urge you to read this boat owner’s manual thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with the various components of your boat, and heed the safety pre­cautions noted herein.
If you have questions that are not covered in this manual, please consult your authorized Regal dealer for assistance or phone the Regal factory at 407-851-4360.
Thank you, and welcome to the “World of Regal !”
Duane Kuck President & CEO
1-5
Mission Statement
With God’s help
and a steadfast commitment to integrity,
we will develop a team
1-6
of exceptional people and relationships
to provide
exceptional customer satisfaction.
Introduction
THIS PAGE IS LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
INT-7
Introduction
Boating is becoming more popular every year. There are numerous types of recreational vessels on our waterways today involved in an every growing number of activities. Therefore, as a new boat owner it is of the highest priority to learn about general boating practices before operating your craft. Your Regal dealer will answer many questions and provide valuable “hands on” information during the completion of the new boat delivery process. In addition, your dealer has received special factory training on the product line and his services should be employed to solve technical problems and periodic maintenance beyond the scope of this manual. Also, your Regal dealer carries a line of factory approved parts and accessories. Your Regal dealer can provide information regarding national training organizations such as the U.S. Power Squadron and United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Along with other organizations and literature, they can help build your “boating savvy” by developing the necessary skills and awareness to be a safe and component skipper. Your local library can also help in providing recommended boating literature such as Chapman Piloting (Seamanship & Boat Handling by Elbert S. Maloney). Remember, the waterways can change from normal to abnormal conditions in a heartbeat. Knowing how to react quickly comes from experience and knowledge which can be gained through boating education.
Welcome aboard!
INT-8
INT-8
Introduction
YOUR REGAL OWNER’S MANUAL
Your Regal owner’s manual has been developed to assist you in operating your vessel with safety and pleasure. Be sure to read and become familiar with the contents before operating your craft. Your owner’s manual has been divided into general chapters to assist you in becoming more knowledgeable with your Regal boat. Also, we have added a special technical drawing chapter which can be valuable in maintenance and troubleshooting. This manual is not intended to be a complete source of boating maintenance, boat handling techniques, boating safety or seamanship. These skills require education and experience levels beyond this manual.
In keeping with its commitment to continued improvement, Regal notes that all drawings, specifi cations, models, standard and optional equipment referred to in this manual are subject to change without notice.
OWNER’S INFORMATION PACKET
Regal has provided an information pouch aboard the vessel. Read and become familiar with the materials. This packet contains valuable literature on your propulsion package, standard and optional equipment, systems and various care and cleaning instructions. Be sure to store the information pouch in a clean dry area for quick reference.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Hull Identifi cation Number (HIN)
The United States Coast Guard has established a universal system of numerically identifying vessels by using a hull identifi cation number or “HIN.” This number identifi es your Regal boats model, hull number, month and year of manufacture. The HIN is found on your boat’s starboard side, usually below the rub rail in the transom area.
INT-9
RGMMA0000C202
RUB RAIL
TRANSOM
The HIN consists of 12 alpha or numeric characters. It is recommended that you locate and write down the HIN for future reference. It can be especially useful when ordering parts from your Regal dealer. A second HIN number is found in a hidden location. This second HIN is useful to authorities if for example the boat is stolen and the original transom HIN is modifi ed or eliminated.
RGMDV000K615
HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
Vessel Information Sheet
It is recommended that you fi ll out the information on the following page. It will supply vital statistics on your vessel. Make a copy of the data for safe keeping at home.
Vessel Float Plan
Fill out the fl oat plan on the following page before departing. Leave it with a responsible person who will notify the United States Coast Guard or local law enforcement authorities if you do not return as planned. If you change your plans be sure to notify this person. Make copies of the fl oat plan and use one each time you go boating. This will help people know where to fi nd you should you not return on schedule. Do not fi le the fl oat plan with the United States Coast Guard.
INT-10
Introduction
VESSEL INFORMATION SHEET
Owner: _______________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________
City & State: ___________________________________________
Home Phone: Business Phone: _______________
In Case Of Emergency Notify: ___________________________
Address: ______________________________________________
City:__________________________________State: ___________
Phone: _______________________________________________
Insurance Agent’s Name: _________________________________
Policy#: _____________________________________________
USCG Phone: ___________ Local Police:
Marina Phone: _________________ Slip (Dock#): ____________
Hull Serial #: RGM __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ Key #:__________ Engine Serial #: ________________________
Stern Drive Serial #:
Key #:__________ Cabin Door: (If Applicable) ______________
Selling Dealer: Address: City & State: Phone: ______________________
Servicing Dealer: Address: City & State: Phone:
______________________________________
INT-11
FLOAT PLAN
Owner: Safety Equipment Aboard: Address: Life Jackets City & State: First Aid Kit Telephone#: Flares Cell Phone#: Flashlight VHF Radio Person Filing Report: Anchor Name: Compass Home Telephone#: Food Cell Phone #: Water
Make Of Boat: Destination:
Registration#: Leave From:
Length: Time Left:
Boat Name: Going To:
Gel Color: Fuel Level: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, F
Trim Color: Est. Time Of Arrival:
Inboard/Outboard:
Hull I.D.#: Return:
Fuel Capacity: Est. Time of Arrival:
If not back by o’clock
call Coast Guard
Other Information:
Name Of Person Aboard Age Address Phone#
INT-12
Introduction
LAUNCH & CRUISE CHECKLIST
Obtain a current weather report.
Inspect the hull and outboard propeller for damage.
Check all electrical system switches for proper operation.
If your boat has been in the water, run the bilge pump until
the fl ow of water stops.
If your boat has been out of the water, check to see that all
bilge water has drained out. Install the drain plug.
Check that all required safety equipment is on board and in
good working condition.
Check that all other equipment is on board such as mooring
lines, fi rst aid kit, tool kit and extra parts.
Inspect fuel components, hoses and hardware including all
fi lters for fuel leaks and overall tightness.
Visually inspect engine for cracked hoses, defective belts,
loose fasteners such as bolts, nuts and hose clamps.
Check fuel level. Fuel tanks should be fi lled to near full
capacity.

Make sure all navigation charts, equipment and vessel
registration paperwork are onboard.
Check operation of steering system, navigation lights and horn.
Make sure passengers and crew know how to operate safety
equipment and react to an emergency.
File a fl oat plan with a responsible party ashore.
INT-13
SUGGESTED TOOLS, PARTS & GEAR
SUGGESTED TOOLS SPARE PARTS
Allen Wrenches Fuel Filters Jack Knife Spark Plugs Phillips Screwdriver Set Water Pump Belt Slotted Screwdriver Set Propellers Regular Pliers Alternator Belt Combination Wrench Set Anti-Siphon Set Ratchet & Socket Set Propeller Nut & Hardware Hammer Penetrating Oil Wire Crimpers Extra Light Bulbs Vise Grip Pliers Extra Batteries Floating Flashlight Duct Tape Nut Driver Set Electrical Tape Oil Filter Wrench Power Steering Fluid Fuel Filter Wrench Water Pump Impeller Spare Keys On Floater
BASIC GEAR
Tie Lines Mooring Lines Dock Fenders First Aid Kit Boat Hook Foul Weather Gear VHF Radio, EPIRB, GPS, Cell Phone Charts & Plotting Instruments Emergency Water & Food Bailer Or Hand Pump Fire Extinguisher Personal Flotation Devices Anchor & Line Life Raft
INT-14
Introduction
Maximum Capacity Plate
Close to the helm on Regal boats up to 26’ in length is a capacity plate. A typical outboard capacity plate for domestic vessels is shown below. This plate represents manufacturers who participate in the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association small boat certifi cation program. The driver of the craft must read and understand the plate information before operating the vessel. The capacity plate data applies under normal conditions. Be sure to read
and abide by the capacity limits. Remember, the boat operator is responsible for the vessel and the safety of its passengers.
Note the typical outboard maximum capacity plate information below:
• The plate displays the maximum number of persons or pounds.
• The plate displays the total weight of persons, motors, gear.
• Weight of heaviest production motor.
Note:Overloading, improper loading and weight distribution are well documented causes of accidents. Provide for an extra margin of safety in rough sea conditions.
TYPICAL EXAMPLE SHOWN
INT-15
Owner’s Registration & Systems Checklist
Please note that your Regal boat requires the proper registration by your authorized Regal dealer. To initiate your warranty the dealer must complete the owner’s registration form and systems checklist at the time of delivery. The owner must sign the paperwork to acknowledge that the dealer has reviewed the boat systems and warranty provisions with the owner. The owner should keep the original paperwork that features a temporary warranty registration. A Regal express limited warranty certifi cate containing all relevant boat and engine serial numbers will be sent after the factory receives the paperwork.
Dealer’s Responsibility
Your boat has undergone rigid quality assurance inspections before leaving the factory. However, your dealer has been trained to perform nal pre-delivery checks and to service your Regal boat prior to your pick-up. Your dealer’s responsibilities include:
A complete orientation in the operation of your Regal boat, including matters relating to the safe operation of your craft.
Completion and mailing of your boat registration warranty form to Regal.
Warranties, registration materials, owner’s manual, operation, installation and maintenance instructions for all auxiliary equipment supplied with or installed on your Regal boat.
INT-16
Introduction
Owner’s Responsibility
You are entitled to all the benefi ts and services outlined in your Regal boat warranty. However, you have certain responsibilities to ensure warranty satisfaction. These are:
To read the warranty materials and understand them fully. To examine the boat in detail at the time of delivery.
Apply the following: boating rules and regulations, safety equipment, environmental regulations, accident reports and warranty regulations terms and conditions.
To read thoroughly all literature supplied with your boat, including this owner’s manual and to follow the recommendations in the literature.
To return the boat after the recommended hours of engine operation for the proper dealer service inspections.
To provide proper maintenance and periodic servicing of your boat and equipment as set forth in the various manuals supplied.
INT-17
INT-18
Introduction
REGAL MARINE INDUSTRIES, INC. LIFETIME PLUS LIMITED HULL WARRANTY
Welcome to the Worldwide Family of Regal Owners! We are very pleased that you have chosen a Regal
Powerboat!
This document is your Warranty Registration Certifi cate and Statement of Warranty. Please check the registration information section for accuracy. If this information is not correct or if you change your address at some future date, please notify us at the following address: Regal Marine Industries, Inc.
Attention: Warranty Registrations, 2300 Jetport Drive, Orlando, Florida 32809
Please read the warranty carefully. It contains important information on Regal’s claims procedures and
your rights and obligations under this warranty.
WHAT IS COVERED: This Limited Warranty applies only to Regal boats beginning with model
year 2012.
LIFETIME LIMITED STRUCTURAL HULL WARRANTY: Regal Marine
Industries, Inc. warrants to the original retail purchaser of this boat if purchased from an authorized Regal dealer that the selling dealer or Regal will repair or replace the fi berglass hull if it is found to be structurally defective in material or workmanship for as long as the original retail purchaser owns the boat. For purposes of this warranty, the hull is defi ned as the single fi berglass casting which rests on the water.
This limited warranty is subject to all limitations and conditions explained below.
FIVE-YEAR TRANSFERABLE LIMITED STRUCTURAL HULL WARRANTY: In addition to the Lifetime Limited Structural Hull Warranty, Regal offers a Transferable
Five-Year Limited Structural Hull Warranty. Under the Five-Year Transferable Limited Structural Hull Warranty, Regal will repair or replace the fi berglass hull if it is found to be structurally defective in material or workmanship within the fi rst (5) years after the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser. Any remaining term of this Five-Year Limited Hull Warranty may be transferred to a second owner if within 60 days of purchase, the new owner registers the transfer with Regal and pays the established warranty transfer fee. Contact Regal Customer Service at the above address for details.
FIVE-YEAR LIMITED HULL BLISTER WARRANTY: Regal will Warrant to the
original retail purchaser, any underwater gelcoated surfaces of the hull against laminate blisters which occur as a result of defects in material or workmanship within (5) years of the date of delivery, provided that the original factory gelcoat surface has not been altered. Alternation would include but is not limited to damage repair; excessive sanding, scraping, sandblasting; or from improper surface preparation for application of a marine barrier coating or bottom paint, any of which shall void this Five-Year Limited Hull Blister Warranty. Regal Marine shall repair or cause to be repaired any covered laminate blisters based on the following prorated schedule. Less than two (2) years from delivery date - 100%, Two (2) to three (3) years from delivery date - 75%, Three (3) to four (4) years from delivery date - 50%, Four (4) to ve (5) years from delivery date - 25%. Reimbursement shall be limited to one repair, not to exceed ($80.00) dollars per foot of boat length prior to prorating. Regals prior authorization for the method and cost of repair, must be obtained before repairs are commenced. All costs to transport the boat for repairs are the responsibility of the owner.
INT-19
LIMITED GENERAL WARRANTY:
to the original purchaser of this boat if purchased from an authorized dealer that the dealer or Regal will repair or replace any parts found to be defective in materials or workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of delivery, subject to all limitations and conditions contained herein.
In addition to above hull warranties, Regal warrants
LIMITED EXTERIOR FINISH WARRANTY: Regal warrants that the selling dealer
or Regal will repair cosmetic defects in the exterior gelcoated fi nish including cracks or crazing reported to Regal within 90 days from the date of delivery to the original purchaser, subject to all limitations and conditions contained herein. All warranty work is to be performed at a Regal dealership or other location authorized by a Regal Customer Service Manager after it is established to Regal’s satisfaction that there is a defect in material or workmanship.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
CUSTOMER OBLIGATIONS:
to the availability of any benefi ts under these limited warranties: (a) The purchaser must sign and the dealer must submit to Regal the “OWNER REGISTRATION AND SYSTEMS CHECKLIST FORM within ten (10) days of the date of delivery and such information must be on fi le at Regal. (b) The purchaser must fi rst notify the dealer from whom the boat was purchased of any claim under this warranty within the applicable warranty period and within a reasonable period of time (not to exceed thirty (30) days) after the defect is or should have been discovered. (c) Regal will not be responsible to repair or replace any part, (1) if the use of the boat is continued after the defect is or should have been discovered; and (2) if such continued use causes other or additional damage to the boat or component parts of the boat. (d) Based on the dealer’s knowledge of Regal’s warranty policy and/or consultations with Regal, the dealer will accept the claim and arrange for appropriate repairs to be performed, or deny the claim if it is not within the warranty. (e) The dealer will contact the Regal boat owner regarding instructions for delivery of boat or part for warranty repair if it is covered by the limited warranty. ALL COSTS TO TRANSPORT THE BOAT FOR REPAIRS ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OWNER; (f) If the Regal boat owner believes a claim has been denied in error or the dealer has performed the warranty work in an unsatisfactory manner, the owner must notify Regal’s Customer Service Department in writing at the address listed for further consideration. Regal will then review the claim and take appropriate follow-up action.
The following are conditions precedent
INT-20
Introduction
WARRANTY EXCEPTIONS: THIS LIMITED WARRANTY does not cover and the
following are not warranted: (a) Engines, metal plating or fi nishes, windshield breakage, leakage, fading and deterioration of paints, canvas, upholstery and fabrics; (b) Gelcoat surfaces including, but not limited to, cracking, crazing, discoloration or blistering except as noted above; (c) Accessories and items which were not part of the boat when shipped from the Regal factory, and/or any damage caused thereby; (d) Damage caused by misuse, accident, galvanic corrosion, negligence, lack of proper maintenance, or improper trailering. (e) Any boat used for racing, or used for rental or commercial purposes; (f) Any boat operated contrary to any instructions furnished by Regal, or operated in violation of any federal, state, Coast Guard or other governmental agency laws, rules, or regulations; (g) The limited warranty is void if alterations have been made to the boat; (h) Transportation of boat or parts to and/or from the REGAL factory or service location; (i) Travel time or haul outs, loss of time or inconvenience; (j) Any published or announced catalog performance characteristics of speed, fuel and oil consumption, and static or dynamic transportation in the water; (k) Any boat that has been re-powered beyond Regal’s power recommendations; (1) Boats damaged by accident and boats damaged while being loaded onto, transported upon or unloaded from trailers, cradles, or other devices used to place boats in water, remove boats from water or store or transport boats on or over land; (m) Water damage to, dry rot to, condensation to, or absorption by interior surfaces, wood structures or polyurethane foam; interior wood including, but not limited to, bleeding and/or discoloration as a result of conden­sation or moisture or water continually contacting the plywood causing staining to upholstery, carpet or other interior surfaces; (n) Costs or charges derived from inconveniences or loss of use, commercial or monetary loss due to time loss, and any other special, incidental or consequential damage of any kind or nature whatsoever.
NO WA VIER OF THESE TERMS: The terms, conditions, limitations and disclaimers
contained herein cannot be wavered except by the Customer Service Manager of Regal. Any such wavier must be in writing. Neither the dealer, nor the customer, nor any service, sales and/or warranty representative of Regal is authorized to waive and/or modify these
conditions, limitations and/or disclaimers.
GENERAL PROVISIONS:
ALL GENERAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL AND/OR CON-
SEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARE EXCLUDED FROM THIS WARRANTY AND ARE TOTALLY DISCLAIMED BY REGAL. IT IS THE INTEREST OF THE PARTIES THAT THE OWNER’S SOLE REMEDY IS THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF THE VESSEL OR ITS ALLEGEDLY DEFECTIVE COMPONENT PARTS AND THAT NO OTHER LEGAL OR EQUITABLE REMEDIES SHALL BE AVAILABLE TO SAID OWNER. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES SO THE FOREGOING MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
INT-21
THIS IS A LIMITED WARRANTY; REGAL MAKES NO WARRANTY, OTHER THAN CONTAINED HEREIN; TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARISING IN STATE LAW ARE EX­PRESSLY EXCLUDED TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY IS LIMITED TO THE PERIOD OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. ALL OBLIGATIONS OF REGAL ARE SPECIFICALLY SET FORTH HEREIN. REGAL DOES NOT AUTHORIZE ANY PERSON OR DEALER TO ASSUME ANY LI­ABILITY IN CONNECTION WITH REGAL BOATS.
limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you. Regal’s obligation with respect to this warranty is limited to making repairs to or replacing the defective parts and no claim for breach of warranty shall be cause for cancellation or rescission of the contract or sale for any boat manufactured by REGAL MARINE INDUSTRIES, INC. Regal will discharge its obligations under this warranty as rapidly as possible, but cannot guarantee any specifi c completion date due to the different nature of claims which may be made and services which may be required. Regal reserves the right to change or improve the design of its boats without obligation to modify any boat previously manufactured. This limited warranty gives you specifi c legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state. Regal shall in no way be responsible for any
repairs not a repair shop not PRE- AUTHORIZED by a Regal Customer Service Manager.
PRE-AUTHORIZED by a Regal Customer Service Manager or repairs performed by
Some states do not allow
INT-22
Safety On Board
WARNING
!
DANGER
!
Safety awareness can’t be over emphasized. Safety on board needs to be the skipper’s number one priority. In this manual you will fi nd many safety precautions and symbols to identify safety related items. Heed all safety precaution information. Remember, the skipper is responsible for the safety of his passengers and crew.
SAFETY LABELS
Safety Precaution Defi nition
Safety precautions are stated as caution, warning and danger signal words. They are highlighted in this manual by font design and symbol usage. Also, a notice heading is included which provides operation and maintenance information but is not hazard-related.
Become familiar and understand all safety precaution labels!
IMMEDIATE HAZARDOUS SITUATION THAT,
POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION THAT, IF NOT
IF NOT AVOIDED, WILL RESULT IN
DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
AVOIDED, COULD RESULT
IN
DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
1-1
CHAPTER 1
NOTICE
NOTICE
CAUTION
!
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation or unsafe practice that, if not avoided, may result in injury or property or product damage..
General or specifi c information which is important to correct operation or maintenance, but is not hazard related.
Precautionary Labels
Read and understand all safety labels affi xed to your Regal boat. Most of the safety labels are found close to the helm, aft cockpit and or swim platform. The location of the labels may vary by model and the label list does not cover everything! Use common sense to analyze the result of an action on board your vessel. Always think safety rst!
DO NOT REMOVE OR COVER ANY
KEEP HARSH CHEMICALS AWAY FROM LABELS.
IF A LABEL BECOMES ILLEGIBLE,
CONTACT YOUR REGAL DEALER
FOR ORDERING REPLACEMENTS.
1-2
PRECAUTIONARY LABELS.
Safety On Board
GENERAL BOATING SAFETY
We understand that you are eager to use your Regal boat on the water. However, we strongly suggest that you thoroughly familiarize yourself and friends or members of your family with safe boating practices before setting out. Remember, that along with the freedom and exhilaration of boating comes the responsibility that you have for the safety of your passengers and other boaters who share the water with you. Boating regulations vary from state to state. Check with your local state and local authorities for the regulations pertaining to your area.
Check with local weather stations, the U. S. Coast Guard, or weather station broadcasts for the latest conditions. Remember getting caught in severe weather is hazardous, Check weather conditions periodically while you are boating and before your outing. If you are forced to operate your boat in a storm condition, take common sense precautions; wear PFD’s, store gear, reduce speed and head for safe refuge.
It is best to avoid operating your boat in foggy weather. When fog sets in, take bearings, log courses and speeds. You are required to emit a fi ve second blast from your horn or whistle once a minute. Also, have your passengers wear PFD’s and observe for oncoming vessels.
Operating in shallow water presents a number of hazards including sand bars and water levels infl uenced by tides. If the vessel strikes an underwater hazard, check for boat and engine damage. If the engine vibrates excessively after striking an underwater obstruction, it may indicate a damaged propeller. If you run aground, seek help by radio or fl ares.
Make sure your boat and equipment are in top condition. Do this by frequently inspecting the hull, engine and gear.
1-3
CHAPTER 1
WARNING
USE OF ALCOHOL ENHANCED FUEL, OR ANY FUEL
OTHER THAN GASOLINE,
CAN LEAD TO DETERIORATION OF THE FUEL
SYSTEM COMPONENTS.
CAN RESULT IN FIRE AND POSSIBLE EXPLOSION
You must provide a Coast Guard approved personal fl otation device (PFD) for every person on board. These PFD’s should be in good condition and easily accessible.
Insist that non-swimmers and children on board wear a PFD at all times. Any time you encounter rough weather conditions, make sure everyone on board is wearing a PFD, including yourself. Instruct your passengers in how to put on their PFDs and be sure they know their storage location on the boat. Remember, in an emergency, a PFD that cannot be quickly located and worn is useless.
Never allow anyone to sit anywhere on the boat not specifi cally designed as a seat. While underway, ALWAYS insist passengers remain seated.
Use maximum caution when fueling. Never allow any smoke or fl ame nearby while you are fueling. ALWAYS check for fuel leaks and fumes when fueling is completed.
!
1-4
Safety On Board
 Never drink and drive! As captain, you are responsible for the safety of your passengers and yourself. Alcohol and boating can be a dangerous combination. DO NOT mix them. Alcohol impairs the boat operators ability to make conscious decisions and react to emergency situations quickly.
 Never overload your boat! An overloaded boat, or one with uneven weight distribution,can be diffi cult to steer.
Be certain there is enough fuel aboard for your cruising needs. Include any reserve
that might be needed should you change your plans due to weather or emergency. Practice the “one-third rule: (Use one-third of your fuel going out, one-third to return and keep one-third as a reserve).
Check the weather before departure. Be particularly cautious of electrical storms and high winds.
 ave up-to-date charts aboard. You will need current charts of the area you’ll be cruising to stay on proper course. Charts can be obtained at your closest marine outlet or store or by contacting one of three federal government agencies.
File a oat plan. Leave details of your trip with someone responsible who will be remaining on shore. Include expected return, plus name and phone number of a contact person in case of emergency.
Use care, courtesy and common sense when launching, docking or operating your boat.
1-5
CHAPTER 1
Learn and obey the “Rules of the Road”. A copy of the “Rules of the Road” can be obtained from the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or local Power Squadron.
n case of emergency: Know the international distress signals if you have a VHF radio aboard. The spoken word “MAYDAY” is the international signal of distress and is for emergency use only. Under no circumstances should this word be used, unless there is danger at hand.
Posted speed limits, swimming areas, “no wake” zones and other restrictions should be red-fl agged. They are so noted for a reason. Sensible boat use plus courtesy fosters enjoyable and safe boating.
It is your responsibility to stay abreast of all federal, state and local rules, as some laws or regulations may change or be different from state to state. Contact your local boating agencies for updated information.
We can not stress safety enough! Remember, there are no brakes on your boat, and the water current and wind velocity all affect your ability to respond. The driver must use caution at all times to maintain control of his vessel and especially to maintain a safe distance from other boats and obstacles.
Always keep all safety gear in optimum condition. Pay special attention to attached tags and plates indicating expiration dates on equipment such as fi re extinguishers, and personal fl otation devices. Encourage a periodic maintenance check on all safety equipment. Contact your Regal dealer or marine professional for more information.
Inspect the fuel system before and after each fueling cycle for fuel leaks. Sniff bilge before outing for fuel leaks. In addition, inspect the entire fuel system at least once per year.
1-6
Safety On Board
REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Personal Flotation Devices
All personal fl otation devices (PFD’s) must be Coast Guard approved, in good working condition, and must be the correct size for the wearer. All PFD’s must be readily accessible. This means being able to wear them in a
reasonable amount of time in case of an emergency (fi re, boat sinking, etc.). They should not be stored or locked in closed areas. Also, make sure that all coverings are removed, such as plastic from any PFD’s. Throwable devices such as a ring buoys need to be available for immediate deployment. A PFD should be worn at all times when your boat is operating on the water. A PFD may save your life, but it must be worn to do so.
As minimum U. S. Coast Guard requirements all recreational boats must carry one type I, II, III, or V PFD (wearable) for each person aboard. See the explanation following for each type. For type V
to be counted they must be used according to the label instructions. In addition, all boats over 16’ must carry one Type IV (throwable) PFD. Some states require that PFD’s be worn by children of specifi c ages at all times. Check with state boating agencies for particular requirements in your state before taking children on the water. Remember PFD’s will not necessarily keep you from drowning, even though they are designed to keep a person from sinking. When purchasing PFD’s make sure it safely fi ts the person wearing it. It is a good idea to test PFD’s in a shallow pool before trying on the water. Refer to the USCG minimum equipment requirements at the end of this chapter. It is meant to be a guide only. Contact state and local agencies for additional equipment requirements. Remember as the captain of your vessel you are responsible for its safe operation.
1-7
CHAPTER 1
TYPE I- Also known as an offshore jacket, it
provides the most buoyancy. It is a PFD for all waters and is especially useful in rough waters where rescue may encompass additional time. It is designed to turn most unconscious users in the water to a face-up position. Type I PFD is available in adult & child sizes.
TYPE II- Also known as near-shore buoyant
vest, it is recommended for calm, inland water where rescue time will be minimal. It will turn some unconscious people face-up in the water but not as numerous as Type I. They are available in adult, medium child, along with infant and small child sizes.
1-8
TYPE III- Known as a otation aid it is good
for calm, inland water or where there is a chance for quick rescue. It is designed so wearers can place themselves in a face-up position in the water. The wearer may have to tilt their head back to avoid turning facedown in the water.
TYPE IV- Intended for calm, inland water
with heavy vessel traffic, where help is constantly present. It is designed to be thrown into the water for someone to grab on to and held until rescued. It should not be worn. Type IV includes ring buoys, buoyant cushions, and horseshoe buoys.
Loading...
+ 252 hidden pages