Owner`s manual

Antares 44i Owner’s Manual Revised March 26, 2012
Page 5 of 35
INTRODUCTION ii
This manual has been compiled to help you operate your craft with safety and pleasure. It
contains details of the craft; the equipment supplied or fitted, its systems and information
on its operation and maintenance. Please read it and the several equipment manufacturers’
manuals carefully and familiarize yourself with the craft before using it.
The owner’s manual is not a course on boating safety or seamanship. If this is your first
craft, or if you are changing to a type of craft 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 craft.
Ensure that the anticipated wind and sea conditions will correspond to the design category
of your craft, and that you and your crew are able to handle the craft in these conditions.
Even when your boat is categorized for them, the sea and wind conditions corresponding to
the design categories A, B, and C range from severe storm conditions for the top of
category C, open to the hazards of a freak wave or gust. These are therefore dangerous
conditions, where only a competent, fit and trained crew using a well maintained craft can
satisfactorily operate.
Always use trained and competent people for maintenance, fixing or modifications.
Modifications that may affect the safety characteristics of the craft shall be assessed,
executed and documented by competent people. The boat builder cannot be held
responsible for modifications that he has not approved.
In some countries, a driving licence or authorization is required, or specific regulations are
in force.
Always maintain your craft properly and make allowance for the deterioration that will occur
in time and as a result of heavy use or misuse of the craft.
Any craft, no matter how strong it may be, can be severely damaged if not used properly.
This is not compatible with safe boating. Always adjust the speed and direction of the craft
to sea conditions.
If your craft is fitted with a life raft, carefully read its operation manual. The craft should
have onboard the appropriate safety equipment (lifejackets, harness, etc.). This equipment
is mandatory in some countries. The crew should be familiar with the use of all safety
equipment and emergency manoeuvring (man overboard recovery, towing, etc.). Sailing
schools and clubs regularly organize drill sessions.
PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SECURE PLACE, AND HAND IT OVER TO THE NEW OWNER
WHEN YOU SELL THE CRAFT.