casting off and docking quite a bit easier. To activate the thrusters,
press both the ON buttons on the Thruster Control simultaneously and
the light will come on which shows these have been activate. Test in a
short burst that both controls are functioning.
Also, it can be very helpful to have marina staff standby to assist in
releasing lines at this time. This is their job, so be sure to ask!
Especially if wind and current conditions are going to make getting off
the dock a bit more difficult.
The captain should take a moment or two to make sure all the crew
aboard understand what will be happening, which lines are to be
released first and which to be released last.
For best visibility around Blue Moon, all close quarters maneuvering
should be done from the upper station. (Both stations have a full
complement of controls, just make sure that the upper stations
controls have been designated the Master Control for the Micro
Commanders).
*NOTE: Blue Moon also has a designated SLOW ENGINE switch that
slows the engine RPMs to about 75% of normal idle. By engaging this
toggle switch when underway in close quarters, you will find that the
boat does not “jump” in and out of gear and makes for smoother
shifting. Once away from the dock and out of the marina, turn this
toggle switch to the Off position by shifting to neutral, turn toggle
switch OFF and then move forward.
Once away from the dock, crew can coil and stow all dock lines are the
days cruising. Next, crew can begin to raise and stow any mooring
buoys in their designated location.
