Owner`s manual

8
Chapter 6
DOCKING-KNOTS
Knots are useful in docking, towing and other emergency
situations. Learning to tie knots requires practice. As they
say “ Practice makes perfect”. Some of the knots used in
boating are the square, bowline, anchor bend, clove hitch,
fi gure eight and half hitch. There are several periodicals
available that explain various knots and how to tie them
effectively. An experienced skipper will know the basic
nautical knots and will use them when on the water. Take
the time to know the basic knots.
Figure 8 Knot
Tied To Cleat
A useful knot to learn for general docking is the fi gure
eight with one end reversed. By turning the free end of
the line back under, the knot can be released without
disturbing the boat. After some practice one person can
secure a vessel easily to a dock or pier in a variety of
weather conditions. This knot normally is used to tie the
bow and stern. Then the vessel can further be fastened
by tying the spring lines in the fi gure eight knot. Wrap it
around the cleat 2 or 3 times.
DOCKING-GENERAL
As a general note docking and slow speed maneuvering
can be one of those operations many skippers dread.
Use common sense when docking. Be aware of the boat
speed, controls, wind and have a feel for the water current
especially in tidal areas. Keep calm and have your crew
ready to cast lines and install necessary fenders.
Docking without joystick technology takes abit more
practice and focus but can be mastered and made to look
easy with a seasoned skipper and crew.
With the Volvo or Axius joysick option and a little practice
will make you look like a pro while docking your vessel in
wind, current, and tight mooring situations.
Read your engine manual to become familiar with the
joystick and remote control components. It is a good idea
to practice your beginning docking techniques in an open
area. Remember practice makes perfect!
Helpful hints using joysticks;
1. For better control hold the joystick knob lightly almost
like you would a delicate object. Push the joystick to the
port or starboard, forward or aft and the rig instaneously
follows the fi ne fi nger movements on the joystick knob.
Twist the knob and the boat spins on its own axis.
2. Remember that both engines need to be in neutral before
activating the joystick buttons or it will not work.
3.The joystick brain responds to the turns not the position
of the wheel. So whatever position you have the wheel
facing when you disengage the stern drive joystick that is
your new straight ahead position. Most seasoned skippers
would position the wheel straight before disengaging the
system.
4. You do not have to worry about disengaging the
joystick and shifting the control into the drive mode at
too high an rpm as the system prevents any shifting above
predetermined limits.