Grady-White Boats Coastal Explorer 251 User manual

Dear Grady-White Owner:
Welcome aboard!
Buying and owning a boat is a very special experience. Of all the many products you’ll ever own we want
your Grady-White experience to be the absolute best. That means providing the descriptions, explanations
and technical support that you need to enjoy your Grady-White with confidence and security.
Your Grady-White exceeds all US Coast Guard safety standards and is built to standards certified by the
National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). Best of all, your boat is built to Grady-White
standards—standards that have served our owners through some truly extraordinary conditions since our
first models built in 1959.
The seaworthiness and safety of your Grady-White is highly dependent on the operation, maintenance
and care of your boat, so please read this manual thoroughly and keep it around for reference. If you need
further explanation or “hands-on” help, don’t hesitate to ask the people at your Grady-White dealership;
they have experience with the systems and operations of your boat. If for any reason you need additional
help, please feel free to call us at the factory. We sincerely want to provide you with the help and information
that will make your Grady-White experience delightful.
Thanks for choosing a Grady-White. All of us at the factory and at your dealership are dedicated to
earning your confidence in Grady-White Boats. Again, welcome aboard.
Sincerely yours,
Kris Carroll
President
Grady-White Boats, Inc.
Grady-White Boats, Inc.
5121 Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy, Greenville, NC 27834 • P.O. Box 1527 • Greenville, NC 27835-1527
Tel: [phone] • Fax: [phone] • http://www.gradywhite.com

Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Consumer Information
Owner’s Packet .............................................................1-1
Warranty Information ........................................................1-1
Dealer’s Responsibilities .....................................................1-1
Consumer Responsibilities....................................................1-2
Hazard Warning Labels .......................................................1-3
Chapter 2: Safety
Minimum Required Safety Equipment...........................................2-1
Additional Recommended Equipment...........................................2-1
Registration Numbers ........................................................2-2
Emergency Stop Switch ......................................................2-2
Emergency Information.......................................................2-2
Boating Safety ..............................................................2-3
Certification ................................................................2-4
Loading Capacity ............................................................2-4
Designated Occupant Positions................................................2-6
Carbon Monoxide ...........................................................2-7
Propeller Safety.............................................................2-8
Watersport Safety ...........................................................2-8
Suggested Boating Classes And Reading Material.................................2-8
Chapter 3: General Information
Fueling ....................................................................3-1
Environmental Protection Agency ..............................................3-2
Pollution Regulations ........................................................3-2
Discharge of Oil or Hazardous Substances ....................................3-2
Disposal of Plastics or Garbage .............................................3-2
Trailering ..................................................................3-2
Predeparture ...............................................................3-3
Casting Off and Approaching The Dock ..........................................3-3
Reboarding Ladder ..........................................................3-3
Anchoring..................................................................3-4
Towing ....................................................................3-4
Shallow Water ..............................................................3-5
General Information On Boat Handling ..........................................3-5
Commonly Used Nautical Terms................................................3-6

Table of Contents
Chapter 4: Performance
Performance Factors .........................................................4-1
Engine Efficiency .........................................................4-1
Weather Conditions .......................................................4-1
Load Distribution .........................................................4-1
Marine Growth ...........................................................4-1
Trim ....................................................................4-1
Propeller ................................................................4-2
Propulsion System – Outboard.................................................4-2
Steering ...................................................................4-3
Throttle/Shift Controls .......................................................4-3
Chapter 5: Instrumentation and Switches
Yamaha Instrumentation Panel ................................................5-1
Yamaha Command Link CL7 Display (Digital Engines & Helm Master™)...............5-1
Yamaha Helm Master™ ......................................................5-3
Switch Panel ...............................................................5-4
Chapter 6: Maintenance and Service
General....................................................................6-1
Exterior Fiberglass Finish .....................................................6-1
Maintenance.............................................................6-1
Cleaning ................................................................6-1
Finish/Waxing ...........................................................6-2
Repairing................................................................6-2
Bottom Paint ...............................................................6-3
Canvas ....................................................................6-3
Maintenance of Canvas ....................................................6-3
Snaps and Zippers ........................................................6-4
Vinyl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4
Storage .................................................................6-4
Upholstery .................................................................6-4
Polyethylene/Acrylic/Vinyl ...................................................6-5
Scuppers ..................................................................6-5
Caulking/Gasket ............................................................6-5
Hardware/Stainless Steel Rails ................................................6-5
Hardware Mounting .........................................................6-5
Aluminum Components ......................................................6-5
Fuel System ................................................................6-6
Batteries...................................................................6-9
Inverter Batteries ..........................................................6-10
LED Lighting...............................................................6-10
251 DC Accessory Wiring Color - Fuse/Breaker...................................6-11

Table of Contents
Chapter 7: Winterization and Storage
General....................................................................7-1
Boat Storage ...............................................................7-1
Cleaning And Lubricating .....................................................7-2
Draining And Water System ...................................................7-2
Head System ...............................................................7-3
Batteries...................................................................7-3
Engines....................................................................7-3
Fuel System ................................................................7-3
Storage Checklist ...........................................................7-3
Getting Boat Out After Storage.................................................7-4
Prior To Launching ...........................................................7-4
After Launching .............................................................7-4
Chapter 8: Coastal Explorer 251
Specifications ..................................................................8-1
Operation Of Standard Features ...................................................8-1
Helm Switch Panel...........................................................8-1
Auxiliary Fuse Block .........................................................8-3
Accessory Outlet - 12 Volt .....................................................8-3
Battery Select Switch ........................................................8-3
Bilge Pump/Float Switch .....................................................8-4
Bilge Pump Location .........................................................8-4
Bow Ladder ................................................................8-4
Cockpit Shower .............................................................8-4
Compass...................................................................8-4
Engine Flushing System ......................................................8-5
Freshwater System ..........................................................8-5
Head ......................................................................8-6
Portable Head Operation...................................................8-6
Livewell – Raw Water .........................................................8-6
Main Circuit Breaker .........................................................8-6
Seacocks ..................................................................8-7
Stereo.....................................................................8-7
T-Top ......................................................................8-7
Trim Tabs ..................................................................8-7
Trim Tab Pump Location....................................................8-8
Washdown - Raw Water.......................................................8-8
Operation Of Optional Features ...................................................8-9
Bow Shades ................................................................8-9
Bow Table/Lounge Seat ......................................................8-9
Power Assist Hydraulic Steering ...............................................8-9
Ski Pylon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9

Table of Contents
Safety Labels and Location ......................................................8-10
Chapter 9: Limited Warranty
Registration Of Purchase .....................................................9-1
Five Year Hull Transferable Warranty ............................................9-1
One Year Material And Workmanship Warranty ...................................9-1
Warranty Claim Procedures ...................................................9-2

1-1
Chapter 1: Consumer Information
CHAPTER 1: CONSUMER INFORMATION
Owner’s Packet
Your Grady-White has many features and accessories that have existing printed material
provided by the various equipment manufacturers. This information is compiled in a package that
we will reference throughout this manual as an “Owner’s Packet.” This Owner’s Packet includes a
Grady-White Owner’s Manual and Engine Manual to advise on operation, service, specifications,
maintenance, warranty, and other useful facts. While reading your Grady-White manual, you will
find other technical literature referenced as resources for detailed information. The Owner’s Packet
will also consist of operation guides, informative labels, and product warranties you will need to be
acquainted with. Your Owner’s Packet can also be used to retain instructions and data compiled on
additional equipment and accessories installed after delivery. To the extent that any other
information in the Owner’s Packet is inconsistent with the Grady-White owner’s manual for your
boat, the owner’s manual takes precedence.
Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual, a book published by the National Marine
Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA), has been included with your Owner’s Manual as a supplement.
This publication will be referenced in your Grady-White Owner’s Manual to present additional
instructions and information on basic boating.
Warranty Information
The Grady-White warranty is located in the last chapter of this manual. Upon the purchase of
your new Grady-White Boat, the dealer will submit the required warranty information to the
factory. For questions regarding your warranty please contact your dealership.
Dealer’s Responsibilities
Throughout the fabricating and assembly processes, your Grady-White has undergone a series
of strict inspections. Subsequent to the final factory overview, your dealer must perform additional
pre-delivery checks and approve your Grady-White for delivery.
Dealer Responsibilities Include Providing The Following:
• An orientation of the general operation of your Grady-White.
• Submitting the required warranty information to Grady-White Boats to validate the
warranty.
• An explanation of safety issues regarding the use of containment systems and
components.
• A complete Owner’s Packet containing literature and information regarding your Grady-
White and its separate warranted products’ operation, installation, and maintenance
instructions.

1-2
Chapter 1: Consumer Information
• A review of all warranties for engines and accessories that are separate from or in
addition to the Grady-White warranty.
• Guidance on acquiring local and out of area service during and out of warranty periods.
Consumer Responsibilities
The following are responsibilities of the Grady-White owner:
• Read and understand the express limited warranty.
• Study in detail all literature and instructions enclosed, and use all equipment in
accordance.
• Examine the boat and confirm all systems are working suitably at the time of accepting
delivery.
• Render proper maintenance and periodic servicing of the boat in accordance with
suggestions in the Owner’s Manual and Packet.
• Return the boat to the selling dealer for an engine inspection. Refer to the engine’s
owner’s manual for the proper maintenance schedule.
Grady-White Boats has a permanent record of your boat which is retained under its “Hull
Identification Number” (HIN). Data regarding equipment and accessories, as well as dealer/
shipping information is documented. When contacting your dealer concerning warranties or service,
please have all relevant information such as serial numbers (HIN) and model number available.
The “Hull Identification Number,” located on the starboard side of the transom, is a significant
source of identification and must be noted in all correspondence and orders. Failure to include the
HIN only creates delay.

1-3
Chapter 1: Consumer Information
Hazard Warning Labels
The hazard warning labels shown below are applied throughout this manual to alert the
customer of potentially dangerous situations that can lead to death, personal injury, and/or product
damage. We urge you to observe these warnings and comply with all safety recommendations.
DANGER
This symbol alerts you to imminently hazardous situations which WILL cause severe personal
injury or death if the warning is ignored.
WARNING
This symbol alerts you to potentially hazardous situations or unsafe practices that COULD
result in severe personal injury or death if the warning is ignored.
CAUTION
This symbol alerts you to potentially hazardous situations that MAY result in minor personal
injury or cause product or property damage if the warning is ignored.
NOTICE
This symbol calls attention to installation, operation, or maintenance information which is
important for proper operation, but is not hazard related.

1-4
Chapter 1: Consumer Information

2-1
Chapter 2: Safety
CHAPTER 2: SAFETY
Minimum Required Safety Equipment
The US Coast Guard (USCG) requires that every boat have specific equipment on board. Check
with local regulations on mandatory equipment apart from the list of Coast Guard requirements.
See Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual, page 23, for details on the following minimum
required safety equipment.
• Fire Extinguisher
Boats should be equipped with marine approved fire extinguishers.
• Personal Flotation
All passengers must have an USCG approved personal flotation device (PFD). The Coast
Guard requires children under 13 years old and not within an enclosed cabin below decks
to wear a PFD on a boat that is underway. The laws of your state may be more stringent. It
is your obligation to know and comply with the PFD laws and regulations applicable in the
states in which you operate.
• Children and non-swimmers are advised to wear a PFD at all times.
• Sound Signaling Device (Horn, Bell Or Whistle)
Your Grady-White is equipped with a horn that meets USCG requirements.
• Visual Distress Signals
USCG approved visual distress signals are required on U. S. waters. See page 42 of the
pamphlet Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual enclosed with this manual for more
information.
• Lighting
Grady-White boats are equipped with navigational lights that meet requirements for
recreational vessels for inland and international waters.
Additional Recommended Equipment
In addition to the required safety equipment, there are additional items that will provide an
extra margin of safety and convenience for you and your passengers while boating. For an extended
list of basic gear, tools and spare parts, reference page 24 of the pamphlet Sportfish, Cruisers,
Yachts Owner’s Manual enclosed with this manual.
Keep tools and spare parts in good condition. Replace parts removed from the spare parts kit.
Most importantly, use US Coast Guard approved or marine certified parts where applicable.
Conditions found requiring corrective action should be worked on by a qualified repairman.

2-2
Chapter 2: Safety
Registration Numbers
Federal and State laws require a powerboat to be registered in the State where it is primarily
used. Registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed according to regulations.
The registration certificate must be on board when boating. The boat serial number or Hull
Identification Number (HIN, page 1–2) is required on the registration form.The HIN is located on the
upper right hand corner of the transom, and is the most important identifying factor. The HIN should
be included in all documents and correspondence to provide you timely service.
Emergency Stop Switch
All Grady-Whites are equipped with an emergency stop switch. This is a safety feature that if
used properly will shut the engine(s) down if the operator leaves or falls from the helm position.The
ignition shutdown system includes a shut-off switch, switch clip, lanyard and lanyard clip. The
lanyard clip must be attached to the operator. If a situation arises where the boat should stop, a pull
on the cord to release the clip from the shut-off switch will shut down the engine(s). To reset the
emergency stop switch, simply reinstall the switch clip. The responsibility to use the emergency
stop switch rests with the owner/operator. See page 82 in Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s
Manual.
Emergency Information
While boating, dangerous situations may develop. You should prepare yourself on how to cope
with them whether they happen aboard your vessel or someone else’s. Anticipate and plan for
specific situations such as fire, man overboard, collision, etc. to give you the confidence and ability
necessary to handle an emergency. The key is to remain calm. For emergency procedures, see
Section 4 in Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual.
• Rendering Assistance
The owner or operator of a vessel is required by law to render all practical or necessary
assistance to any person or vessel affected by collision, accident or casualty. However,
you are not required to endanger your vessel or passengers to render assistance.
• Accident Reporting
Report all boating accidents to your local authorities. Federal regulations require boat
operators involved in an accident to submit a written report within 48 hours. In the event
of death or disappearance, notification is required immediately by phone or radio in
addition to the written report. These reports can be submitted to the State Boating Law
Administrator. Forms can be obtained through the USCG, local harbor patrol offices,
sheriff, and police stations.
• Lightning Precautions
This awareness is included to ensure the safety of the owner and passengers. Always be
mindful of the weather! When a lightning storm advances, certain safety precautions
should be taken. Dock the boat and seek shelter on land. If this is not possible, seek
refuge inside the boat until the storm has passed. Stay out of the water! Lightning will
seek a ground when it strikes and may pass through metal components if it hits your boat.
For this reason, avoid contact with metal parts of the boat under these conditions.

2-3
Chapter 2: Safety
Boating Safety
Safety is an important aspect of boating. Your safety as well as the safety of your passengers
and vessel is your responsibility. The following precautions and the ones mentioned in section 1 of
Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual will add to you and your passengers’boating safety and
pleasure.
• Before operating your Grady-White read and study all operation and maintenance
manuals. It is important that you fully understand how to use your boat. Contact your
Grady-White dealer for questions. Proper use and service will insure quality performance
and longevity of your boat, and help ensure your safety, as well as the safety of your
passengers.
• A written float plan left with a responsible person can serve as valuable information
should you not return as scheduled. Upon returning, your primary responsibility is to
notify the person of your return.
• Never operate or allow anyone to operate your boat while under the influence of drugs or
alcohol.
• Individuals under the age of 16 should not be allowed to operate your boat.
Inexperienced drivers should have constant and direct supervision.
• Instruct at least one passenger on the fundamentals of basic boating and safe operation
in the event of an emergency.
• While boating, passengers should be located in a safe position. Use hand holds and rails
for steadiness. Do not allow bow, transom or gunwale riding. The captain is ultimately
responsible for their passenger’s safety.
• Keep your boat speed under control. Respect for other boaters and those on shore are
common courtesies. The boat’s operator is responsible for injury or damage caused by
the boat or the wake. Your wake could swamp a smaller craft and endanger its
passengers. Stay alert for posted “No Wake Zones”.
• Become familiar with the handling personality and limitations of your boat.
• Never allow swimmers/skiers to enter or exit the boat with engine(s) running. A shift
lever in neutral could become engaged accidentally. Also, exhaust fumes from the
outboard engine(s) contain carbon monoxide gas. These fumes may concentrate in this
area. See more information on “Carbon Monoxide” on page 2-7.
• Obtain information and a chart for new areas when possible.
• Clean water and air are responsibilities for all persons. Use litter containers on board and
dispose of refuse properly. See “Pollution Regulations” on page 3-2.
• Know and obey the “Rules of the Road”. See Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual,
beginning on page 25, for a better understanding of right of ways, signals and waterway
markers.

2-4
Chapter 2: Safety
• Inclement Weather
On the water, the weather can change rapidly. Always be mindful of changing weather and
sea conditions as these can impact the safe operation of your vessel, and the safety of
your passengers.
Certification
This label means your Grady-White is certified by the
National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). With this
tag, you are assured the fuel system, electrical system,
navigation lighting, ventilation, steering and other design
elements are not only in compliance with the US Coast Guard
regulations, but also meet the more stringent standards of the
NMMA. The NMMA is a national trade organization serving all
elements of the recreational boating industry including
manufacturers of boating equipment. With this tag, you can
have confidence in the safety of your boat.
This label means that Grady-White has designed and built your boat to the ABYC standard H-8,
buoyancy in the event of swamping. Basic flotation is defined as having enough foam in the boat to
create buoyancy and prevent sinking under swamped conditions.
R
Loading Capacity
Though overloading is a primary cause of many boating accidents, improper loading is equally
hazardous. Boaters should know the amount of weight on board and evenly distribute the weight
within the boat.

2-5
Chapter 2: Safety
In the helm area you will find a NMMA capacity information tag indicating the maximum weight
and person capacity for your boat. This tag will also designate the maximum horsepower limit for an
outboard. You and your passengers will be in jeopardy and your warranty void if any of these
stipulations are exceeded. The capacity plate indicates maximum load under normal conditions.
The capacity plate does not release the operator from the accountability of rational judgment. Allow
yourself an extra margin in rough waters and adverse conditions by reducing the boat’s capacity.
Maintain a watch on weather conditions.

2-6
Chapter 2: Safety
Designated Occupant Positions
The number of designated
occupant
positions matches the
persons
capacity label of your
boat
. These areas may be
standing
or seating positions that
are app
ropriately sized and
d
esigned to be safely occupied at
boat speeds in excess
of 5 mph
(4.3
knots).Your boat’s
de
signated occupant positions
a
re indicated by an X on this boat
layout diagram. Rema
in in these
area
sand use the available
g
rabrails or handholds while the
boa
t is in motion to avoid injury
or f
alling overboard.

2-7
Chapter 2: Safety
Carbon Monoxide
WARNING
CO is produced by all combustion engine(s) and generator sets.
Avoid brain damage or death from carbon monoxide.
Keep cockpit and cabin areas well ventilated.
Avoid blockage of exhaust outlets.
Signs of exposure include headache, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness.
Carbon Monoxide, commonly written CO, is a colorless, odorless gas emitted from any boat’s
exhaust. The gas is similar in weight to the air we breathe. Therefore, it cannot be expected to rise or
fall, but will accumulate in confined spaces.
Carbon monoxide is poisonous, and potentially fatal if breathed over an extended period of
time. Symptoms of CO poisoning include dizziness, nausea, headache, sleepiness, vomiting,
throbbing in the temples, muscular twitching, and an inability to think clearly. If you or anyone else
experience these symptoms, immediately get away from fumes and into an area where plenty of
fresh air can be consumed. If any symptoms from above persist, seek medical attention.
Carbon monoxide can accumulate in cabins and under enclosures and canvas. Maintain access
to fresh air when occupying these areas with the engines or generator running.
Outboard engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide.These fumes may concentrate at the
motorwell area. Do not board your vessel at the transom ladder with the engine(s) running. Also, do
not occupy the motorwell area with the engine(s) running.
Operators need to be aware of the influence of other boats on their vessel as well as the effects
they have on neighboring crafts. Of primary concern is the operation of an auxiliary generator with
boats moored along side each other. This situation creates an atmosphere which is filled with CO,
and extremely dangerous. If your CO detector alarm sounds, indicating CO is present, immediately
remove yourself from the area and go to a location with fresh air. Shut off sources of CO such as
engines and generators and open doors and windows to ventilate the affected area if possible. If
you or anyone aboard your vessel experiences persistent symptoms of CO poisoning seek medical
attention right away.
WARNING
BE AWARE of the significance your exhaust may have on other vessels. Likewise, BE AWARE
that the operation of other vessels’ equipment may influence the carbon monoxide
concentration on YOUR vessel.

2-8
Chapter 2: Safety
WARNING
Exhaust fumes from engine(s) contain (CO). Boats with canvas deployed are more likely to
collect exhaust fumes. Avoid brain damage or death from (CO). Keep cockpit and cabin areas
well ventilated. Signs of exposure include headache, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness.
Propeller Safety
WARNING
Contact with propeller(s) can cause death or serious bodily injury. All engines should be off at
all times when any swimmer is at or in the vicinity of the stern area or engine(s). When
swimmers are disembarking or reboarding the boat, it is the operator’s responsibility to
ensure that the movement of the boat in the water or waves does not pose an unreasonable
risk of personal injury.
Placing the engine(s) in neutral is not sufficient to protect swimmers in the water from the
possibility of accidental propeller strike injury. There are many cases of reported injuries
when engines were either thought to be in neutral but were not, or when engines were
accidentally or inadvertently engaged.
Before engaging in any towed watersport activities with your Grady-White boat, make sure
that you and all participants are knowledgeable of the proper and safe practice relating to
such activities.
Watersport Safety
For additional information regarding watersport safety, please refer to the Towed Watersports
Safety Guidelines brochure included in your Owner’s Packet.
Suggested Boating Classes And Reading Material
Like a car, boats must be operated according to safety rules and traffic regulations. Although we
include some basic boating tips in this manual, a thorough review of the safety rules and regulations
for boating is beyond the scope of this text. A listing of boating safety courses approved by the
NationalAssociationofStateBoatingLawAdministrators(NASBLA)canbefoundat www.nasbla.org.
State law may require the certification or licensure of boat operators. To determine your state’s
boating license requirements, check with the responsible agency for the states in which you
operate.

2-9
Chapter 2: Safety
We support the work of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power
Squadrons. We urge you to attend any instructional classes sponsored by these organizations.
Reference page 10 of Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual for training options, and page 28
for information on charts and maps. For further knowledge on boating, we advise that you review
the following publications:
• Piloting, Seamanship And Small Boat Handling
(Chapman)*
• Boatman’s Handbook
Tom Bottomly
• Sorensen’s Guide To Powerboats
Eric Sorensen
For more inFormation on boating saFety courses in your area call:
• Boating Education Hotline ......................................................1-800-336-BOAT (2628)
• US Coast Guard Boating Hotline ............................................1-800-368-5647
• Contact Your Local Coast Guard

2-10
Chapter 2: Safety