Wakeboard Boat Driving Tips

You may open it by sliding or pulling back a small clip attached to it. Like how you drive a car, a truck, or any motor vehicle for that matter, you must be mindful of controlling your speed to prevent any accidents. Boat lines are ropes that secure your motorboat to the slip, pier, or dock. These are the mooring lines, dock lines, and spring lines, among others.

At the same time, having too much fuel can increase the risk of a fire. In general, laws regulate who can operate a boat and where you can go on your boat. Most states prohibit people younger than 18 from driving a boat.

If it’s windy, I would recommend positioning the front of the boat downwind, in the opposite direction of the wind. Pontoon boats don’t have small turning circles, so you should think in advance before turning in the water. Place the throttle into forward shift and start off slowly with little bursts of power. Next you will need to start turning using the steering wheel. If you have a clear path in which to drive back into, make small and controlled bursts on the throttle to back the boat out of the slip. Using the pontoon’s throttle should be something done with a very gentle motion.

The trim has two main purposes which are; move the propeller away from the ground in shallow water and contribute to the overall performance of the boat while it’s underway. However, throwing the throttle in reverse while underway boating will act sort of like a brake and bring the boat to a halt quicker than if you just put it in neutral. Once the prop is submerged and the engine is tilted to the degree you want, turn the key and start the motor.

You will see that the bow is starting to rise to an angle with the speed. In no wind, condition engages reverse and slowly steer away from the berth, marina or pontoon. Once you came to a safe distance balance your boat and proceed.

While there happen to be a handful of accidents each season. It is better to be prepared and take account of all safety precautions. After all, boating is all about fun, leisure, and relaxation. Plus you would not like to ruin all the excitement of everyone who comes to celebrate your big day as the captain of your boat. If the boat has trim tabs or a trimmable drive, try trimming the bow up and down a bit.