11.6 MOORING AND UNMOORING

CAUTION

Before starting the unmooring manoeuvre, ensure that engines, stern drive, rudders and bow thruster are working properly (optional). During such manoeuvres, the Captain should prevent any unpleasant noise, and/or wake that might bother other people. Before unmooring, make sure that all doors, hatches, etc.., are closed.

WARNING

Before starting the manoeuvre, make sure that people on board, especially children, do not obstruct operations and that they stay in suitable places.

DANGER

Check with extreme care that no one on board is in danger (with legs or arms outside the edge, in precarious balance or moving on wet or slippery surfaces) and that the fenders are well positioned and fastened.

The thruster (optional) must be used at a very low speed or without overheating; at a higher speed, more precise reactions are obtained with the staggered use of the engine throttle.

The ability to exploit these excellent qualities depends mainly on the “familiarity” the Captain has with his yacht.
Manoeuvre at a reduced speed to allow the necessary reaction time, so that you can better assess the situation at any given moment and, in the event of unforeseen circumstances, to avoid damaging your yacht or those of others.

Before unmooring check following:

• There should be no other boats manoeuvring;
• The mooring lines must not be snagged;
• The fenders should be in place and well secured (in the event of wind or undertow, equip a passenger with fenders to avoid damage);
• There must be no floating objects or loose lines that could damage the propellers;
• The shore power cable must be disconnected and stowed.