How to Push Your Boat Off the Rocks

Naturally, one of the unspoken rules of boating is, "Don't drive your boat on the rocks." Some experiential learners, however, may accidentally break this rule when challenging the shallows. Once on the rocks, it is good to know how to get off with minimal damage to boat and pride.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Don't panic, and don't yell at your first mate--these things happen.
2. Turn the motor off and pull up the motor and propeller or outdrives.
3. Attempt to determine if you have damaged the hull. Assuming the answer is "no," proceed. (If you put a hole in the hull, leave the boat where it is and use the emergency channel (16) on your marine radio to call for help.)
4. Ask the strongest and heaviest person (or persons) to hop off the boat. The water is probably pretty shallow, so they should be just fine. Someone should hang on to an attached line so the boat doesn't get away from you.
5. Send 1 or 2 small people to the bow to put weight on the front of the boat and lift the stern a bit.
6. Gently rock the boat until it is floating freely. Once the boat is back in deeper water, invite everyone to get on board again.

Tips & Warnings

• Be certain you are clear of the rocks before you put your motor or outdrives down.