Albemarle 41 CONVERTIBLE Owner'S Manual Download

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10 Convertible

Chapter 12:

OPERATION

12.1 General

Before you start the engines on your Albemarle,  you should
have  become  familiar  with  the  various  component  systems
and their operation, and have performed a “Precruise System
Check.”  A thorough understanding of the component systems
and their operation is essential to the proper operation of the
boat.  This manual and the associated manufacturers’ infor-
mation is provided to enhance your knowledge of your boat.
Please read them carefully.

Your  boat  must  have  the  necessary  safety  equipment  on
board and be in compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard, local
and state safety regulations.  There should be one Personal
Floatation Device (PFD) for each person.  Nonswimmers and
small  children  should  wear  PFDs  at  all  times.   You  should
know and understand the “Rules of the Road” and have had
an experienced operator brief you on the general operation of
your new boat.  At least one other person should be instructed
on the proper operation of the boat in case the operator is sud-
denly incapacitated.

The operator is responsible for his safety and the safety of his
passengers.   When boarding or loading the boat, always step
onto the boat, never jump.  All passengers should be properly
seated whenever the boat is operated above idle speed.  Your
passengers should not be allowed to sit on the seat backs, gun-
nels, bows, transoms or on ﬁshing seats whenever the boat is
underway.  The passengers also should be seated to properly
balance the load and must not obstruct the operator’s view,
particularly to the front.

Overloading and improper distribution of weight can cause the
boat to become unstable and are signiﬁcant  causes of accidents.
Know the weight capacity and horsepower rating of your boat.
Do not overload or overpower your boat.

You  should be aware of your limitations and the limitations
of your boat in different situations or sea conditions.  No boat
is indestructible, no matter how well it is constructed.  Any
boat can be severely damaged if it is operated in a manner
that exceeds its design limitations.  If the ride is hard on you
and your passengers, it is hard on the boat as well.  Always
modify the boat speed in accordance with the sea conditions,
boat trafﬁc and weather conditions.

Remember, it is the operator’s responsibility to use good
common sense and sound judgement in loading and oper-
ating the boat.

12.2 Rules of the Road

As in driving an automobile, there are a few rules you must
know for safe boating operation.   The following information
describes the basic navigation rules and action to be taken by
vessels in a crossing, meeting or overtaking situations while
operating  in  inland  waters.    These  are  basic  examples  and
not intended to teach all the rules of navigation.  For further
information  consult  the  “Navigation  Rules”  or  contact  the
Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Department of Natural
Resources, or your local boat club.  These organizations spon-
sor courses in boat handling, including rules of the road.  We
strongly recommend such courses.  Books or videos on this
subject also are available from your local library.

Note: Sailboats not under power, paddle boats, vessels

unable to maneuver, vessels engaged in commercial
ﬁshing  and other vessels without power have the
right of way over motor powered boats.  You must
stay clear or pass to the stern of these vessels.  Sail-
boats under power are considered motor boats.

Crossing Situations

When  two  motor  boats  are  crossing,  the  boat  on  the  right
has the right of way.  The boat with the right of way should
maintain its  course and speed.  The other vessel should slow
down and permit it to pass.  The boats should sound the ap-
propriate signals.

Meeting Head-On or Nearly-So Situations

When two motor boats are approaching each other head-on or
nearly head-on, neither boat has the right of way. Both boats
should reduce their speed and turn to the right so as to pass port
side to port side, providing enough clearance for safe passage.
The boats should sound the appropriate signals.

Overtaking Situations

When one motor boat is overtaking another motor boat, the
boat that is being passed has the right of way. The overtaking
boat must make the adjustments necessary to provide clearance
for a safe passage of the other vessel. The boats should sound
the appropriate signals.

The General Prudential Rule

In obeying the Rules of the Road, due regard must be given
to all dangers of navigation and collision, and to any special
circumstances, including the limitations of the vessels, which
may justify a departure from the rules that is necessary to avoid
immediate danger or a collision.