2.2 Driver and safety

As the driver of the boat, you are responsible for ensuring that you and your crew take safety seriously. This includes:

  • Acquiring the necessary boating and navigation skills before setting out to sea.

  • Understanding the safety features and limitations of the boat.

  • Behaving responsibly.

Neglecting the necessary safety precautions can cost lives. The driver of the boat is responsible for the operation of the boat and the safety of fellow passengers.

Make sure that there is always at least one skilled, nominated driver on board.

Boating skills

As the responsible driver, you must: 

  • Ensure that you and your crew have the necessary boating skills.

    • Know how to maneuver the boat in different weather conditions.

    • Be familiar with the use of all safety equipment.

    • Be capable of taking action in various emergency situa­tions such as person overboard recovery and towing.

  • Drive responsibly.

    • Respect the anticipated wind and wave conditions set by the design category.

    • Remain within the limits of your own boating ability.

    • Never drink and drive.

  • Know and obey the rules of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG). Be aware of local accident reporting requirements. 

If needed, sailing schools and clubs regularly organize courses and rescue drills.

Inap­propriate use of this boat not compatible with safe boating is strictly prohibited. 

  • The boat is intended for recreational use only.

  • It is always important to adjust the speed and direction of the boat to the sea conditions and to remain within the limits of your own boating ability.

  • When using the boat for activities such as water skiing and fishing, you must understand your responsibilities and the risks involved.

Knowing the boat

You must be aware of and understand the following:

  • Limitations set out by the boat's design category.

  • Capacity restrictions. 

    • Never overload the boat.

    • Check the maximum load and number of persons allowed from the builder's plate next to the steering wheel.

  • Always make sure that you and the passengers use the designated seating areas while underway.

  • Location and content of the warning labels on the boat.

  • Location of all the required safety equipment.

    • Ensure all safety equipment is in order and you know how to use it.

    • Keep the necessary safety equipment on board at all times. 

    • Have personal flotation devices or life jackets for all passengers.

    • Check section 2.3.1 Safety equipment and emergency exit for details. 

For more details, see sections 2 Safety and 9.2 Technical specification of this manual.