How To

How to Handle Chop in a Small Powerboat

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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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:

  1. Step 1

    Reduce your speed.

  2. Step 2

    Ensure that all passengers are wearing their personal flotation devices.

  3. Step 3

    Secure all movable gear.

  4. Step 4

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

  5. Step 5

    Distribute passengers' weight evenly from side to side.

  6. Step 6

    Experiment with course changes to minimize the rocking motion.

  7. Step 7

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

  8. Step 8

    Adjust your speed to match the changing conditions.

Comments  

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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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.


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