How to Handle Chop in a Small Powerboat

When the water gets rough, boaters get cautious. The smaller the boat, the more careful your piloting skills must become.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Boating Safety
• Boats

1. Reduce your speed.

2. Ensure that all passengers are wearing their personal flotation devices.

3. Secure all movable gear.

4. Move your passengers back from the bow without overweighing the stern.

5. Distribute passengers' weight evenly from side to side.

6. Experiment with course changes to minimize the rocking motion.

7. Activate the bilge pump or bail as soon as water accumulates in the bilge.

8. Adjust your speed to match the changing conditions.

Who Can Help:

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on 11/22/2005 For improved safety and comfort, try quartering the seas ... approach the waves at a 45-degree angle, not head on. Adjusting/adding power may also improve the ride by moving the boat over the top of some waves/chop.