Boston Whaler 230 dauntless User manual

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230 Dauntless
230 Dauntless
“The mission of Boston Whaler®
is to provide consumers with the
safest, highest quality, most durable
boats in the world”

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1958, The legend is born
as company founder Dick Fisher
demonstrates a Boston Whaler’s
total unsinkability.
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T H E U N S I N K A B L E L E G E N DTM
Welcome to the Boston Whaler family! Congratulations on your purchase of a Boston Whaler boat.
For over 50 years now, Boston Whaler has been represented by a select group of the best dealers in
the boating industry. Boston Whaler depends on this extremely qualified network of dealers to
provide you, our customer, with a truly exceptional boating experience.
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your boat, please don’t hesitate to contact your
selling dealer. They will be more than happy to provide you with all the information and
assistance that you require.
Information and assistance is also available at our corporate website, www.whaler.com. At whaler.
com you will find information about upcoming events happening in your area. Things
like fishing tournaments, rendezvous, boat shows, and many others are listed, as are maintenance tips
and back issues of our e-newsletter, the Whaler News.
Since Boston Whaler’s inception in 1958, we have been committed to providing customers with the
safest, highest quality, most durable boats in the world. I am confident that you, as a Whaler owner,
will also appreciate the quality and pride that is built into every Boston Whaler boat.
From all of us here at Whaler, thank you for purchasing one of our boats. May it
bring you many years of boating enjoyment.

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HISTORY
In 1958, company founder Richard T. Fisher
introduced the first Boston Whaler®boat in
Braintree, Massachussetts. It featured two significant
innovations: first, its twin sponson hull design
produced superior stabilityand a remarkablydry ride;
second, its unique foam core construction made the
boat not only durable, but unsinkable as well.
Fisher took every opportunity to illustrate the unique
characteristics of the Boston Whaler®. His most
famous demonstration was captured in 1961, by
Life Magazine. The series of photographs showed
the boat underway, the boat being sawed in half and
ultimately Fisher motoring away in the remaining
half of the boat. And through the years many other
demonstrations have proved the toughness and
durability of the Boston Whaler hull. And though
you may never cut your boat in half, this only goes
to show one thing, people whose livelihood and lives
depend on boats consistently choose Boston Whaler®
because of their seaworthiness, dependablility and
the inherent safety of a hull that won’t sink even if
severely damaged.
Boston Whalers are built to last. For over 50 years
Boston Whaler®has strived to make each model
better, providing you with a safe and fun boating
experience. That is the reason we offer a 10 year
limited transferable warranty. It is also an excellent
reason why you can trust the safety of your family
and friends to a Boston Whaler®.
On September 26, 1996, Richard T. Fisher was
posthumously inducted into the NMMA (National
Marine Manufacturer’sAssociation) Hallof Fame for
accomplishments made in marine engineering and
construction.
1958, The legend is born
as company founder Dick Fisher
demonstrates a Boston Whaler’s
total unsinkability.
PLEASE KEEP THIS OWNER’S MANUAL PACKET IN A SECURE PLACE, AND BE SURE
TO HAND IT OVER TO THE NEW OWNER IF YOU SELL THE BOAT.

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Welcome Letter..........................................iii
History ......................................................iv
Preface.....................................................vii
Privacy Statement ....................................viii
Introduction...............................................ix
Owner’s manual .....................................ix
Your responsibilites.................................ix
Source of Information.............................ix
Warranties .............................................ix
Contact Phone Numbers and
Internet Addresses...............................ix
Section 1 • Safety
Explanation of Safety Precautions............. 1-1
Safe Boating means................................. 1-2
To Obtain These Skills.......................... 1-2
In Addition.......................................... 1-2
Safe Boating Checklist ............................. 1-2
Before departure ................................. 1-2
Trailering (if applicable)........................ 1-2
After Return........................................ 1-2
Legally Mandated Equipment
(Minimum Required)............................ 1-3
Personal Flotation devices.................... 1-3
Fire Extinquisher (Portable).................. 1-3
Fire Extinquisher Location.................. 1-3
Whistle, Horn...................................... 1-3
Visual Distress Signal...........................1-3
Additional recommended Equipment for
Safe Operation .................................... 1-3
Impaired Operation................................. 1-3
Carbon Monoxide (CO) ............................ 1-4
Lifesaving Equipment............................... 1-5
PFD Requirement ................................ 1-5
PFD Classifications............................... 1-5
Boarding (Wear a PFD) ........................1-6
Maintain Control...................................... 1-6
General Considerations ........................ 1-7
Emergency Situations.............................. 1-8
Medical Emergency.............................. 1-8
Water Rescue...................................... 1-8
Returning to the victim...................... 1-8
Making contact................................. 1-8
Getting back on board....................... 1-8
TABLE of CONTENTS
Fire ....................................................... 1-8
To lessen the danger of fire.................. 1-9
Flooding, Swamping and Capsizing...........1-9
Flooding ............................................. 1-9
Swamping........................................... 1-9
Capsizing............................................ 1-9
Collision................................................ 1-10
Propulsion, Control or Steering Failure .... 1-10
Grounding ............................................ 1-10
Distress Signals..................................... 1-10
Visual distress signals (VDS)............... 1-10
Audible distress signals...................... 1-11
Radio Communication............................ 1-11
Weather ............................................... 1-11
Swimming, Diving & Water Skiing........... 1-12
Swimming......................................... 1-12
Diving............................................... 1-12
Water Skiing ..................................... 1-13
Water Skiing Signals .......................... 1-13
Emergency Engine Stop Switch .............. 1-14
Float Plan ............................................. 1-15
Chart Your Course................................. 1-15
Environmental Considerations ................ 1-15
Fuel & Oil Spillage................................. 1-15
Excessive Noise..................................... 1-16
Wake/Wash .......................................... 1-16
Homeland security restrictions................ 1-16
America’s Waterway watch..................... 1-16
Warning Label Locations........................ 1-16
Key To Symbols Used on Controls
& Prints ............................................ 1-19
Section 2 • General Information
Construction Standards............................ 2-1
Our Hull.................................................. 2-1
Hull Identification Number.................... 2-1
Servicing Your Boston Whaler................... 2-1
Manufacturer’s Certification...................... 2-1
Certification design Category................2-2
Power Capacity.................................... 2-3
Specifications & Dimensions..................... 2-4
Passenger Locations................................ 2-5
Location Of Thru-Hull Fittings................... 2-6
Features................................................. 2-7
Deck Features ..................................... 2-7
Console Features................................. 2-8

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Console Switch Panel............................... 2-9
SmartcraftTM Deluxe Gauges................... 2-10
Seating................................................. 2-11
Storage ................................................ 2-12
Options ................................................ 2-13
Fishing Package (option).................... 2-15
Ski Pylon (Option) ............................. 2-15
Trim Tabs (Option)............................. 2-16
Operation....................................... 2-16
Maintenance................................... 2-16
Reversible Pilot Seat w/Livewell.......... 2-17
Leaning Post w/cooler (option)........... 2-17
Canvas (Option) ................................ 2-18
12V/24V Trolling Motor Panel (Option) 2-19
“ALL ACTIVITY” Tower(Patent No. US 7,370,599 B1)
(Option) ........................................ 2-20
Reversible Pilot Seat w/Cooler................ 2-20
Stern Fold-Away Seat ............................ 2-21
Swim Ladder......................................... 2-21
Stowable Bow Table .............................. 2-22
Gear Shift & Throttle Control.................. 2-23
Power Trim Operation........................ 2-23
Navigation Lighting................................ 2-24
Operating The navigation Lighting ...... 2-24
Propeller............................................... 2-25
Docking, Lifting and Trailering................ 2-26
Docking............................................ 2-26
Lifting............................................... 2-26
Trailer (Option) ..................................... 2-27
Trailer safety......................................... 2-27
Securing the Boat to the Trailer .......... 2-27
Securing the Trailer to the
Tow Vehicle.................................... 2-27
Trailer Description ................................. 2-28
Section 3 • Systems & Components
Overview & Operation
Bilge Pump ............................................. 3-1
Operation............................................ 3-1
Maintenance ....................................... 3-1
Fuel & Oil Spillage ............................... 3-1
Power Steering........................................ 3-2
Filling & Maintenance........................ 3-2
Fuel System............................................ 3-3
Fuel Tank............................................ 3-3
Fuel Vent ............................................ 3-3
Fuel System Maintenance.....................3-4
Hoses and Fittings ............................ 3-4
Tank Cleaning................................... 3-4
Static Electricity and the Fuel System. 3-4
Ethanol-Blended Fuels....................... 3-5
Battery Switch......................................... 3-7
Starting the Engine.................................. 3-8
Stopping the Engine................................ 3-8
Livewell.................................................. 3-9
Operation............................................ 3-9
Reversible Pilot Seat Livewell (Option) .... 3-10
Maintenance ..................................... 3-10
Raw Water Washdown (Option).............. 3-10
Operation.......................................... 3-11
Maintenance ..................................... 3-11
Fresh Water System (Option)................. 3-12
Fresh Water Pump............................. 3-13
Fresh Water Shower .......................... 3-13
Maintenance ..................................... 3-13
Head System ........................................ 3-13
Environmental Consideration.............. 3-13
Anchoring............................................. 3-14
Considerations................................... 3-14
Lowering the Anchor.......................... 3-15
Setting the Anchor............................. 3-15
Weighing the Anchor ......................... 3-15
Section 4 • Electrical
Electrical System..................................... 4-1
Battery................................................... 4-1
Battery Maintenance............................ 4-1
Battery Switch......................................... 4-2
12 Volt Accessory Receptacle ...................4-2
Trolling Motor Receptacle (Option)............ 4-2
Trolling Motor Installation ........................4-2
Trolling Motor Connection (12V)............... 4-2
Trolling Motor Connection (24V)............... 4-3
Component Breakers............................... 4-4
Electrical Schematics & Harnesses............ 4-5
Wiring Identification Chart ....................... 4-5

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INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION IS BASED ON THE LATEST PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AT PRINTING, BOSTON WHALER® BOATS, INC. RESERVES THE RIGHT
TO MAKE CHANGES ATANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, IN THE COLORS, EQUIPMENT, SPECIFICATIONS, MATERIALS AND PRICES OF ALL MODELS, OR TO DISCONTINUE MODELS.
SHOULD CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS TO THE MODELS BE MADE BOSTON WHALER®IS NOT OBLIGATED TO MAKE SIMILAR CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS TO MODELS SOLD
PRIOR TO THE DATE OF SUCH CHANGES.
BOSTON WHALER • A BRUNSWICK COMPANY
MRP #1943819
230 DAUNTLESS
THE FOLLOWING ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF THE BRUNSWICK CORPORATION:
DAUNTLESS, BOSTON WHALER®.
This Owner’s Manual has been written to provide specific information about your boat and it should be read
carefully. Keep this booklet with the Manuals in the Owner’s Manual Packet. The Owner’s Manual Packet
has been compiled to help you operate your boat with safety and pleasure. It contains details of the boat, the
equipmentsupplied or fitted, it’s systems and information onit’s operation andmaintenance. Please familiarize
yourself with the boat and it’s operation before using it. If this is your first boat, or you are changing to a type
of boat you are not familiar with, for your own comfort and safety, please ensure that you obtain handling
and operating experience before “assuming command” of your boat. Your Boston Whaler®dealer or local
Yacht Club will be pleased to advise you of marine safety classes and safe boating classes in your area.
Preface
Section 5 • care & Maintenance
Cleaning Your Boat.................................. 5-1
Hull .................................................... 5-1
Windscreen......................................... 5-1
Stainless Steel/Metal Trim ....................5-1
Aluminum & Powder Caoted Surfaces.... 5-2
Hull Maintenance (Blisters) ......................5-2
Causes................................................ 5-2
Prevention .......................................... 5-2
Bottom Painting ...................................... 5-2
Painted Hull Care ....................................5-3
Painted Hull Care (Bottom)................... 5-3
Vinyl Cushion Care .................................. 5-4
Rubrail Care............................................ 5-4
Long term Storage .................................. 5-4
Engine................................................ 5-4
Fuel System........................................ 5-5
Electrical System ................................. 5-5
Drainage............................................. 5-4
Water System...................................... 5-5
Trailer Storage..................................... 5-5
Canvas Care & Maintenance..................... 5-6
Reinforcement Location Diagram.............. 5-7
Maintenance Log..................................... 5-8
Attachment..........product Registration Card
Printed in the U.S.A. © Boston Whaler, Inc. All rights reserved.
April, 2008
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Specifications and standard equipment are subject to change. Boston Whaler is not responsible for changes to parts or accessories manufactured by companies other than Boston Whaler.
Active Deck Suspension System, Boston Whaler, Whaler, the Boston Whaler logo, Conquest, Dauntless, Montauk, and Outrage are registered trademarks of Boston Whaler, Incorporated.
Accutrack, Unibond, The Unsinkable Legend, Ventura, and Whaleboard are trademarks of Boston Whaler, Incorporated. Mercury and Optimax are registered trademarks of Mercury Marine, and
SmartCraft and Verado are trademarks of Mercury Marine. Trademarks of others are the property of their respective owners. All mercury engine information provided by Mercury Marine, June 2007.
Information contained within this publication is believed to be correct at the time of printing.

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Thank you for purchasing a boat or requesting information from Boston Whaler! This Privacy Statement is to inform you
how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard the personal information you provide to us through your purchases, requests for
brochures, product registration cards, promotions, surveys, call centers, or other customer contacts. To see our full Privacy Policy
and any updates, please visit www.whaler.com and select the Privacy Statement link.
“Personal information” may include your name, age, mailing address, residential phone number, or e-mail address. It may also
include income ranges, marital status, product or lifestyle preferences, and information concerning dealer service.
How We Collect Personal Information: Our authorized dealer provided Boston Whaler or our company in the European Union
with personal information collected at the time of your boat order/purchase with other product registration data and will continue
to provide warranty and servicing information on your boat. We will send you customer satisfaction surveys which you may
elect to return to provide us with information on your boat purchase and your servicing needs. Your personal information may be
gather5ed by or shared with Boston Whaler’s marketing providers and affiliated companies, who have comparable
levels of privacy protection, for the purposes described in this statement. Boston Whaler, your dealer, and our marketing
providerscollectpersonalinformationwhenyourrequestinformationaboutourcompaniesandfromsurveys,promotions,contests,
correspondence, your e-mails, telephone inquiries, web forms, and other communications.
How We Use & Disclose Personal Information: Unless you advise us otherwise, Boston Whaler, our authorized dealers,
affiliated companies, and our marketing providers may generally collect, use, disclose, hold, and file your personal information
for the following purposes: (1) Providing goods, brochures, information, incentives, and/or services to you or on your behalf; (2)
Fulfilling the terms of our limited warranty or other service obligation; (3) Facilitating recalls or service campaigns if necessary;
(4) Reviewing goods and/or services provided to you in product, services, and marketing analyses; (5) Ensuring your satisfaction
through surveys or other contacts; (6)Administration, billing, accounting, and collections; and protecting against fraud and error;
and (7) Investigating a breach or a contravention of a law, complying with a subpoena, warrant, court order, or as required or
otherwise permitted by law. BOSTON WHALER WILLNOT SELLYOUR PERSONALINFORMATION OR SUBJECT
YOU TO TELEMARKETING OR UNSOLICITED E-MAIL.
Safeguards: We use security safeguards appropriate to the sensitivity of personal information to protect it from loss or theft, as
well as prohibiting unauthorized access, disclosure, copying, use or modification of your personal information. These safeguards
include restricted access to offices and equipment, security clearances, the use of passwords and/or encryption, publishing our
privacy policy to appropriate personnel with instructions to act in accordance with its principles, and contractual provisions with
our marketing agents and authorized dealers to follow the principles of our privacy policy.
Access and Correction to Your Personal Information: Subject to the exceptions provided by applicable law, we will
provide, upon written request, your specific personal information collected in a form which is generally understandable. Your
Personal Information is held by us and for us by our marketing agency, AVALA, who has contractually agreed to protect your
information according to our privacy policies at the following addresses: Boston Whaler Inc., 100 Whaler Way, Edgewater, FL
32141. Please direct corrections, withdrawal of consent for specific purpose, complaints or other inquiries regarding personal
information to: Terry Domian, AVALA Marketing Group; 1078 Headquarters Park Drive, Fenton, MO, 63026; Phone: (636)
343-9988, Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]. You can withdraw consent for us to use your
personal information at any time or provide corrections upon providing to us a 30-day notice, unless withdrawing consent would
impede the performance of legal obligations. We are requires by law to provide you with information for product recall and other
product safety relates purposes. The withdrawal of your consent may also adversely affect our ability to provide products and
services to you and to maintain our relationship. Please note, notifying us will not result in withdrawing consent from your dealer,
who should be contacted separately.
Obtaining Consent: If any supplementary disclosure is required, we will obtain your consent for disclosure to other persons or
organizations and for other purposes than stated herein, unless otherwise permitted by law.
Thank you again for your business. We hope you have many years of wonderful boating experiences!
PRIVACY STATEMENT

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INTRODUCTION
The material here and in the rest of the Owner’s
Manual Packet:
• Gives you basic safety information;
• Describes the features of your boat;
• Describes the equipment on your boat;
• Describes the fundamentals of boat use; and
• Contains service and maintenance
information.
You must learn to operate this boat as well as read,
understand and use this manual.
What this manual does not give you is a course in
boating safety, or how to navigate, anchor or dock
your boat. Operating a power boat safely requires
more skills, knowledge and awareness than is
necessary for a car or truck.
Your responsibilities
For your safety, the safety of your passengers, other
boaters and people in the water, you must:
• Take a boating safety course.
• Get instruction in the safe and proper handling
of your boat.
• Understand and follow the “rules of the road”.
• Learn how to navigate.
Source of Information
In North America, contact one of the following for
boating courses:
• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
• U.S. Power Squadron
• Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons
• Red Cross
• State Boating Offices
• Yacht Club
Contact the Boat/U.S. Foundation at 1-800-336-2628
or go to www.boatus.com/foundation
Outside of NorthAmerica, contact your boat dealer
and/or your governmental boating agency for
assistance.
A comprehensive background in boating can be
found in the book, Chapman - Piloting, Seamanship
and Small Boat Handling, by Elbert S. Maloney,
published by Hearst Marine.
Warranties
In addition to the Boston Whaler®LimitedWarranty
for yourboat, each componentand/or system onyour
boat has its own warranty that will be found with the
specific information andmanual for that component.
The manualsare includedwith your Owner’s Manual
Packet. Locate and read the individual warranties;
then keep them together for easy future reference.
Boston Whaler, Inc.
Phone.............................................1-877-294-5645
Internet........................................www.whaler.com
United States Coast Guard
Phone.............................................1-800-368-5647
Internet.................................www.uscgboating.org
Boat US Foundation
Phone.............................................1-800-336-2628
Internet..................... www.boatus.com/foundation
Canadian Coast Guard
Phone.............................................1-800-267-6687
Internet................ www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/main_e.htm
Owner’s manual
Contact Phone Numbers and
Internet Addresses

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Section 1 • Safety
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Denotes hazards or unsafe practices that COULD
result in minor personal injury, product or
property damage.
!CAUTION
Denotes hazards or unsafe practices that MAY
result in severe personal injury or death.
!WARNING
Explanation of Safety Labels
Warning Labels
Mounted at key locations throughout your boat are
warninglabels (Seepage 19)which advisetheowner/
operator of imperative safety precautions to follow
when operating and/or servicing equipment.
The examples below indicate the level of hazard by
color and explanation.
Safety Precautions
The examples below areof precautions which appear
throughout this manual and must be observed when
operating or servicing your boat. Learn to recognize
the degree of hazard and understand the explanations
of safety prior to reading this manual.
Always use common sense in the operation and
servicing of your boat.
!DANGER
Denotes an immediate hazard exists that WILL
result in severe personal injury or death.
Denotes information that is important to know
prior to operation and/or maintenance, but is
not hazard related.
NOTICE
!DANGER
Denotes an immediate hazard exists that WILL
result in severe personal injury or death.
Denotes hazards or unsafe practices that MAY
result in severe personal injury or death.
Denotes information that is important to know
prior to operation and/or maintenance, but is
not hazard related.
!
Denotes hazards or unsafe practices that COULD
result in minor personal injury, product or
property damage.
!CAUTION
NOTICE
WARNING
The most important aspect of boating is safety.
Although every effort is made to address the
numerous issues regarding the safe usage of your
boat, it is strongly recommended that you avail
yourself of the training and knowledge available
through boating safety courses, etc.

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Boat position-secure on trailer
Tiedowns-tight
Winch-locked
Trailer hitch-connected
Safety chains-attached
Swing tongue-secured with safety clip
Engine clearance-in trailering position
(See engine manual for recommended
guidelines)
Electrical-Lights, brake lights, turn signals
working
Mirrors-adjusted for trailering
SAFE Boating means:
• Knowing the limitations of your boat
• Following the “RULES of the ROAD”
• Keeping a sharp lookout for people and objects
in the water.
• Not boating in water or weather conditions that
are beyond the boat’s and operator’s capability.
• Never operating the boat while under the
influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Being aware of your passengers safety at all
times.
• Reducing speed when there is limited visibility,
rough water, people in the water nearby, boats
or structures.
In Addition:
• Maintain your boat and its safety and other
systems as recommended in this manual.
• Have the boat inspected by a qualified
mechanic or dealer, at least annually.
• Ensure that the Coast Guard required safety
equipment is on board and functioning.
Boating in beautiful weather and calm water
conditions can be a wonderful experience. Boating
however requires considerably greater skills than
operating a land vehicle. Taking a boating course
is the best way to prepare for a safe and enjoyable
experience on the water.
• Take a Coast Guard, U.S. Power Squadron or
equivalent boating safety course. (Call
the Boat/U.S. Foundation at 1-800 336-2628
for information on available courses, or
go to: “www.boatus.com/foundation” on
the internet.)
• Get hands-on training on how to operate your
boat properly.
Update checklists when equipment is added or
modified.
Weather-forecast safe
Required documents-on board
Navigation charts & equipment-on board
Safety equipment-on board
Safety training-passengers & crew instructed
on procedures, location, and use of safety
equipment.
Drain plugs-installed
Bilge pumps-working & clean
Navigation lights-working
Sound signal device on board
Fuel system-no leaks or fumes
Power steering fluid-filled (if applicable)
Steering system-working smoothly & properly
Battery-electrolyte level within range
Float plan-filed with friend or relative
Safe Boating Checklist
Before Departure
Trailering (if applicable)
After Return
PFD’s & other safety gear-dry, stowed for
next use
Fuel tanks-filled (allow for expansion) to
prevent condensation
Fuel system-no leaks
Bilge pump-operating properly
Bilge-clean, no leaks
Float plan-notify person with whom you
filed plan
Asaboatowneroroperator,YOUareresponsible
for yoursafety andthe safetyof your passengers
and other boaters.
NOTICE

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Section 1 • Safety
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General Considerations
• Know how your boat handles under different
conditions. Recognize your limitations and the
boat’s limitations. Modify speed in keeping
with weather, sea and traffic conditions.
• Instruct passengers on location and use of
safety equipment and procedures.
• Instruct passengers on the fundamentals of
operating your boat in case you are unable to
do so.
• You are responsible for passenger’s actions. If
they place themselves or the boat in danger,
immediately correct them.
• Remember the “Rule of Thirds”: one third
total fuel usage for the trip out; one third total
fuel sage while out; one third total fuel usage
for the return trip.
Maintain Control
On the water there are no marked traffic lanes, no
traffic signs or lights, and boats have no turn signals.
The boat operator must keep her or his attention
focused not only on what’s ahead but what’s on the
left, right and behind the boat.
The operator must always be alert to approaching
boats (from the rear, right and left sides, as well
as those ahead). There can be people in the water,
partially submerged debris, and other navigational
hazards such as rocks, sand bars or dangerous
currents, to name a few.
Your passengers are relying on you to operate and
maneuver the boat safely so that they are not in
danger of going overboard. If you turn too quickly,
increase or decrease speed abruptly, your passengers
are at risk of being thrown overboard or thrown
about the boat.
When visibility becomes impaired because of
weather, time of day or high bow angle you must
slow down so that you have sufficient time to react
if an emergency occurs. Nearby boats face similar
risks in avoiding a collision with you.
Boarding
• Board only one person at a time.
• Never jump into boat. Step or climb into
cockpit.
• Load gear after you are aboard. Carrying
gear while boarding can cause you to lose
balance.
• Distribute weight evenly.
• Instruct passengers where to sit during
on-plane operation to reduce the
possibility of falling overboard during
high speed maneuvers.
• If gear is not immediately needed, stow it in
secure areas.
• Safety gear must be immediately accessible
at all times.
A qualified operator must be in control of the
boat at all times. Do not operate the boat while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs. never
operate your boat at speeds which exceed
the operator’s ability to react if an emergency
develops. At night, turn on the appropriate
navigation lights and cruise at a reduced speed
that will allow you plenty of time to avoid
dangerous situations.
!WARNING
The detrimental effects of alcohol and drugs are
increased by wind, waves and sun, and will decrease
your response time and ability to act in critical
situations. Give special attention to the effects of
alcohol and drugs while boating. No other single
factor causes as many marine accidents and deaths.
Death or serious injury and damage to personal and
private property canresult from beingimpaired while
operating a boat.
Impaired Operation
CONTROL HAZARD-Federal laws prohibit
operating a boat while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs. These laws are vigorously
enforced.
!WARNING

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STABILITY HAZARD
• Load boat properly. The
manufacturer’s load rating is the
maximum allowed under normal
conditions. Adjust downward if
weather, water or other conditions
are adverse.
• Allow passengers to ride only in areas
that do not pose a hazard to
themselves or the boat.
DO NOT allow passengers to ride on
the bow of a closed bow boat.
DO NOT allow several passengers to
ride in the bow of a small open-bow
boat, causing the boat to “plow” into
the water.
DO NOT allow passengers to ride on
the stern cushion or gunwales.
DO NOT overload the stern.
• Observe manufacturer’s
recommended on-plane seating
locations.
• Passengers should remain seated
while boat is moving.
PERSONAL INJURY HAZARD-Stay alert. Use of
drugs, alcohol, or other substances which impair
judgement poses a serious threat to yourself
and others. The boat operator is responsible for
the behavior of passengers.
DROWNING HAZARD-Boats must carry one
wearable personal flotation device (PFD) for
every passenger on board. Boats must have at
least one throwable life preserver.
SLIPPING HAZARD-Wet decks are slippery.
Wear proper footwear and use extreme caution
on wet surfaces.
!WARNING
Death or serious injury can result if you fail to
observe these safety rules:
• Anyone who controls the boat should
have taken a boating safety course and
have trained in the proper operation of
the boat.
• Always operate the boat at speeds that
will not put people or property in
danger.
• Be constantly aware of conditions in
all directions when underway and
before turning.
• Reduce speed, use a lookout to
identify possible hazards or difficulties,
and turn on navigation lights when:
- visibility is impaired;
- in rough water; and
- in congested waterways.
• Watch your wake. It can capsize a
small boat or damage moored boats or
other property. You are responsible for
damage caused by your wake.
!WARNING
NEVER operate a boat at a speed at which you
do not feel in control.
!WARNING

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Legally Mandated Equipment
(Minimum Required)
Consult your national and state boating law
enforcement agency.
The following equipment is the minimum required
by the U.S. Coast Guard for a boat less than 26’(7.9
meters) in length.
• One (1) Coast Guard approved Type I, II
or III PFD for each person aboard or being
towed on water skis, tubes, etc.
Fire Extinquisher (Portable)
It is recommended that you carry one (1) A,B or C
Type fire extinguishers on board and located near the
helm for easy reach.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFD’s)
FIRE EXTINGUISHER LOCATION
A storage pocket for the portable fire extinguisher
is located on the lower starboard side of the center
console.
Depending on the state or country of operation,
the operator of a vessel may be fined for failure
to comply with local or national rules regarding
PFD usage.
NOTICE
Visual distress Signals
Boats operating in coastal waters, the Great Lakes
& US owned boats on the high seas are required to
carry approved visual distress signals for nighttime
use. They must be readily accessible, in serviceable
condition and not be expired.
Store all pyrotechnic signals in a well marked,
waterproof container.
Additional Recommended equipment for
safe operation
In addition to the legally mandated equipment, the
following items are recommended for safe boating.
• First Aid kit • Compass
• Charts/Maps • Manual bilge pump
• Visual distress signals • GPS or LORAN
(for day or night use) • Spare keys
• Marine VHF radio • EPIRB-Emergency
• Moisture repellent positioning-indicat-
• Mooring Lines ing radio beacon
• Fenders • Boat hook
• Waterproof flashlights • Extra batteries
• High power spotlight • Instruction manuals
• Spare propeller • Lubricating oil
• Tool kit:
- Screwdrivers, (phillips & flat)
- Pliers, (regular, vise-grip, tongue & groove)
- Wrenches, (box, open end, allen & adjustable)
- Socket set, (metric and U.S.)
- Electrical tape & duct tape
- Hammer
- Spare parts kit, (spark plugs, fuses, etc.)
There is rarely time to reach stowed life jackets
in time of emergency. Boaters should always
wear a properly fitting, approved life jacket
when on the water.
Children and non-swimmers MUST wear PFDs
at all times when aboard.
!WARNING
Whistle, Horn
You must have on board, some means of making
a loud sound signal. Navigation rules require that
a sound made by any audible device be capable
of a four (4) second blast, and must be audible for
1/2 mi. (.80 Km).

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Carbon Monoxide is an oderless, colorless, and
tasteless, extremely toxic gas produced by engines,
heaters, stoves or generators. When inhaled it
combines with hemoglobin in the blood, preventing
absorption of oxygen and is unlikely to be noticed
until the person is overcome.
Prolonged exposure to low concentration or very
short exposure to high concentrations can result in
asphyxiation and death.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning include:
• Dizziness • Headaches
• Ringing in the ears • Nausea
• Unconsiousness
GET MEDICAL ATTENTION AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE.
Symptoms of CO poisoning are often confused with
seasickness or intoxication,so those affected may not
receive the medical attention they need.
The poisoning victim’s skin often turns cherry red.
If CO poisoning is suspected, have the victim breath
fresh air deeply. If breathing stops, resusitate. A
victim often revives, then relapses because organs
are damaged by lack of oxygen.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Fumes from the engine(s), Generator(s)
and other equipment and appliances
that burn fuel contain Carbon Monoxide.
Carbon Monoxide can kill you. Open all
doors, hatches, curtains and windows to
allow fresh air to circulate and dissipate
the amounts of Carbon Monoxide
present in enclosed spaces, especially
when the boat is moored or anchored.
• Proper ventilation must be
maintained, even during inclement
weather to prevent dangerous levels of
Carbon Monoxide build-up.
• Sleeping aboard a boat will require a
working Carbon monoxide detection
system, preferably in each sleeping
quarter.
!DANGER
Carbon Monoxide can accumulate in dangerous
concentrations anywhere in or around your boat
including on back decks, swim platforms, or in
water around generator exhausts. CO can remain in
or around your boat at dangerus levels even if your
engine is no longer running.
Remember:
• If you can smell engine exhaust, you are
inhaling CO.
• Changing course and speed to place boat
heading into the wind can improve
ventilation.
To minimize the danger of Carbon Monoxide
accumulation when the Engine is running (or by use
of fuel burning equipment.):
• Do not idle the engine without moving the
boat for more than 15 minutes at a time.
• Inspect the exhaust system regularly.
• Operateallfuel burning appliances, such as
charcoal, propane, LPG, CNG or alcohol
cookingdevicesin areas where fresh air can
circulate.

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PFD Classifications
Listed below are the several different types of PFDs,
each life jacket has different purposes, choose one
that will suit your purpose.
Type I, Off-shore Life Jacket is
considered the mostbouyant, it is
designed to turn an unconscious
person face up. Use in all types
of waters where rescue may be
slow, particularly incold or rough
water conditions.
Type II, Near-shore Life Vest,
“keyhole” vest with flotation
filled head and neck support is
also designed to turn a person
face up, but the turning action is
not as pronounced. Use in calm
inland waters or where quick
rescue is likely.
!DANGER
Even in rainy cold weather, ventilation must be
maintained to avoid Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
You will get wet and/or cold.
Examples of accumulation of Carbon Monoxide
Fig. 1.7.1
Even strong swimmers can tire quickly in the water
and drown due to exhaustion, hypothermia, or both.
Thebouyancy provided by apersonalflotation device
(PFD) will allowthe person whohas fallen overboard
to remain afloat with far less effort and body heat
loss, extending survival time necessary to find and
retrieve them.
One (1) Coast Guard approved PFD, Type I, II or
III for each person aboard or being towed on water
skis, tubes, etc.
The law requires that PFDs must be readily
accessible, if not worn. “ReadilyAccessible” means
removed from storage bags and unbuckled.
Lifesaving Equipment
PFD Requirement
Children and non-swimmers MUST wear PFDs
at all times when aboard.
NOTICE
BLOCKING EXHAUSTS
GOOD AIR FLOW
OPERATING AT SLOW SPEED OR DEAD IN WATER
WINDS BLOWING EXHAUSTS TOWARD BOAT OCCUPANTS.
OPERATING WITH “BOW HIGH”

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Type V, Special-Use devices,
sailboat harnesses, white water
vests, float coats, and hybrid
vests which have minimum
inherent bouyancy and an
inflatable chamber.
Before purchasing PFDs, ensure that there is an
attached tag indicating they are approved by the
U.S.Coast Guard or by your National Boating Law
Enforcment Agency.
The operator is responsible for instructing everyone
onboard on their location and use. The best
precaution is to wear the PFD at all times while
on the boat.
Type III, Flotation-aid Life
vest is designed so that
consciouswearerscanturnface-up.
Designed for comfort while
engaged in water skiing or other
forms of water activities.
Type IV, Throwable Devices,
horseshoe bouys, ring bouys and
bouyant cushions are designed to
be grasped, not worn.

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There are three (3) steps that must be taken when a
person has fallen overboard:
1. Returning to the victim:
• Immediately make everyone onboard aware
that someone is overboard and keep the victim
in sight.
• Slow the boat and keep pointing toward the
personoverboard.At night or inlowlight, point
the best available light source at the person.
Prevention is the safest approach. We hope that you
are never involved in an emergency situation, but if
you are it is imperative that you react.
Medical Emergency
You may be far from professional medical help when
you are boating. At least two (2) persons on board
your boat should be CPR certified, and should have
taken a first aid course.Your boat should have a well
stocked first aid kit on board. In many situations
your radio will be your only link to reaching medical
assistance. Keep the radio in working order and
understand which channelsare used for emergencies,
these channels are constantly monitored and will
be useful when situations arise. Cell phones are
becoming more common and can help in some areas,
but they are limited and unreliable and should not be
used in the place of a good VHF radio.
Water Rescue
In most situations a person that has fallen overboard
will succumb to hypothermia if not rescued
immediately. Life expectancy decreases as rescue
time increases in water temperatures below 70°
(21.1°C).
Emergency Situations • Throw a life ring/preserver to the victim, even
if they are wearing one it will serve as another
marker.
2. Making contact:
• Stop or slow the boat and circle toward the
person overboard. Never reverse your boat to
pick up someone in the water.
• Try to approach heading into the wind or into
the waves.
• Keep person overboard constantly in sight.
• When almost alongside, stop the engine in gear
to prevent propeller “windmilling”.
3. Getting back aboard:
• Try to reach the person overboard with a pole,
or by throwing a life preserver. NEVER swim
to them except as a last resort.
• Assist the person in boarding. Boarding should
be done at the stern of the boat.
• If the person is injured or incapable of boarding
bythemselves, a rescuer should donalife
preserver with a safety line and enter the water
to assist the person onto the boat.
• Handle the person carefully, spinal injuries
might have occurred and could be worsened by
rough handling.
• Check for other injuries, render medical
assistance immediately.
Fire is a serious boating hazard. Boats will burn
quickly. Do not remain onboard and fight a fire for
more than a few minutes. If the fire is out of control
and cannot be put out with the fire suppression
equipment onboard, abandon ship immediately.
The fumes released during a fire are toxic and should
beavoided.Evenafterthefire hasbeen extinguished,
proper ventilation of the area is required to minimize
exposure to these harmful fumes.
Fire
The law requires the operator to assist any
person or boat in distress as long as rendering
assistance does not endanger the operator, the
passengers or the boat.
NOTICE

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CAPSIZING
• “Capsized” is when a boat is on its side or
completely upside-down (usually as a result
of wave action, improper loading or
load shifting).
• Always wear your PFD, or have it within
reach.
• If the boat will not right itself, get out of the
water and climb onto the exposed hull.
• Do a head count of all passengers
• STAY TOGETHER
• Usually a capsizing will happen quickly and
without warning.
• Use whatever is at hand to signal for help.
• Fires can spread quickly. Your reaction
to the fire is important. Have the proper
fire fighting equipment close at hand,
and in good working order to respond
quickly.
• Small fire extinguishers have small
discharge times. Aim at the base of the
fire with a sweeping motion to maximize
the use of the fire extinguisher contents.
!DANGER
Flooding, Swamping and Capsizing
In the event of Flooding, Swamping or Capsizing:
FLOODING
• Always wear your PFD, or have it within
reach.
To lessen the danger of fire:
• Extinguish all smoking materials, shut off
blowers, stoves, engine(s) and generator(s).
• Keep bilge area clean, oil and fuel spills should
be cleaned immediately.
• If possible throw burning materials overboard.
• If fire is accessible, release the contents of the
fire extinguisher(s) into the base of the fire.
• If the fire is in an enclosed compartment, and
you have an automatic extinguisher for the
compartment, wait 15 min. before opening the
compartment. Have an extinguisher handy in
case of a flare up.
• If possible, signal for help. Radio, visual, or
audible signal should be used as needed. You
must render assistance to any boater requesting
help.
• If fire is out of control, grab all neccesary
survival gear, distress signals, don your PFD
and prepare to abandon ship.
• If you do abandon ship, make sure the
passengers have PFDs. Take a head count
before entering the water and take another
head count when in the water. STAY
TOGETHER.
• If the bilge pump(s) have not automatically
turned ON, switch them ON immediately.
• Find the source of the flooding and determine
the best fix.
• Keep the bilge pump running until the flooding
is under control.
• Call for assistance if the source of the flooding
cannot be controlled.
• Head back to port if possible.
SWAMPING
• Always wear your PFD, or have it within
reach.
• Swamping is usually a result of wave action,
immediately get control of the helm and turn
the boat into the waves.
• Swamping can also be caused by an overloaded
boat.
• If the bilge pump has not automatically
turned ON, switch it ON immediately.
• The deck scuppers on your boat are designed to
drain the deck of water.
• Keep the bilge pump running until the flooding
is under control.
• Take a head count of all passengers.