12.9.3 Mooring manoeuvre
Before setting back for the harbour, stop in free waters and test the gear boxes and the bow/stern thrusters.
Besides check:
- That mooring lines are ready for use;
- That the mooring point and the berthing course are free from incoming, leaving or moored boats or boats with the signal of unsteered craft at shore;
- Check that on the main electrical panel, all necessary uses are supplied (anchor winch, bow/stern thrusters, etc..). Disconnect unnecessary uses;
- That the wheel trim tabs are in a raised position;
- That the yacht hook is easily accessible and does not hinder any passage;
- The operation of the audible warning devices and the adjustable headlamp;
- In the case of a night approach, a hand-held (working) torch is at hand;
- That the passengers will not interfere with operations and, if participating, they know whom to listen to and what to do;
- That bilge, grey water tanks and holding tanks are empty;
- That mooring ropes and fenders are correctly arranged.
Lift the trim tabs, if necessary, and reduce the speed.
If the yacht is moored with the stern to the shore:
- Warp on stern ropes and on an anchor log, so as to haul the shore.
If the mooring is on the side:
- Warp on bow and stern ropes, so as to haul parallel to the shore.
Once moored:
- Stop the engines;
- Ensure that indication lights on the dashboard are OFF and remove start keys;
- Cut out not in use electrical equipment and check the general condition of the main electrical panel and the indication of voltmeters and ammeters;
- Check bilge pump switches and their regular operation;
- Check bilge and dry it;
- Ensure there are no leakages from shaft stuffing boxes;
- Rinse the yacht with fresh water;
- Connect shore electric power supply;
- Stop the generator, once cooled down.
Before leaving the yacht, check following:
- Lower deck lights are not powered;
- Ensure that navigation lights and external lights are not powered;
- Ensure that unnecessary devices (plotter, radiotelephone, anchor winch, etc..) are not supplied;
- Ensure that devices in use are powered (automatic bilge pumps);
- Ensure that the shore socket is properly connected and the cable cannot be damaged;
- Disconnect battery breakers;
- Make sure that the devices (life jackets, yacht hook, torches, etc..) are in their correct positions;
- Ensure that all bottles and containers with flammable liquids are properly sealed;
- Make sure that no food residues are left around (they could rot or clog scuppers etc..);
- Ensure that the gangway is in the right position and properly fastened;
- Ensure that mooring is correct (in case of bad weather conditions, tighten the mooring lines as much as possible and check the distance from other boats is appropriate; ensure fenders are properly fastened, etc..);
- Ensure that sea water intakes are closed;
- That lower deck compartments are properly closed;
- That all portholes and the garage hatch are well closed.