Click for Glendinning Click for JetForums Click for Mulder Click for Cross Click for Walker

Pre-Cruise Check List...

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by Pascal, Sep 1, 2008.

You need to be registered and signed in to view this content.
  1. Pascal, Sep 1, 2008
    #1
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 29, 2008
    Messages:
    8,546
    Location:
    Miami, FL
    what do you guys always check when getting on a boat you've never run before?

    i check:
    -fuel tank capacities (usually on plated/labels) or in the manuals...
    -fuel level (sight gauges preferably) if no sight gauge or dipstick i insist on a refueling before leaving on any significantly long run unless the owner is absolutely sure the gauges are accurate. Not a third party like a broker, mechanic, yard, etc...
    - fuel burn,
    - black water valves... Y valves in the proper position and locked, sea cocks handles removed or locked. it's amazing how many boats i find with teh valves in the wrong positions...
    - paperwork (documentation, etc...)
    - bilge pump locations and operation
    - location of all sea cocks

    obviously in addition to basic ER checks...
  2. Seafarer, Sep 1, 2008
    #2
    Seafarer

    Seafarer Senior Member

    Joined:
    Sep 3, 2007
    Messages:
    721
    Location:
    Hudson River
    What do you do in the event that:
    1. the tanks may have been replaced, may have water, or other things that may render the boat's specs off?
    2. the owner insists the gauges are accurate and the boat is full, but there's a risk of fuel theft at the dock?
    3. the owner refuses to put more fuel in since it was "just filled" (whether or not the owner is aboard)?
    4. fuel burn is not recorded in the engine management computers or log books in a non-computerized boat?
    5. the boat is actually filled up, everything works, the owner tells you the burn rate and that the trip has been made plenty of times, but you run against tides, currents, waves, and wind?

    And you end up, let's say, 10-40 miles from your destination, out of fuel?

    Do you turn in your captain's ticket? Chalk it up to bad luck or a learning experience? Apply for a job as a greeter at Wal-Mart?

    I think it'll be interesting to see how different people will answer this (if it gets answered).