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- #Reading white water drift boating how to#
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Therefore, if you find yourself heading into treacherous waves, do not take them on head-on. Sometimes by slowing down and idling, a storm can just pass you by, but not always. By reducing your speed, you will be able to navigate much safer than at higher speeds. When you reduce your speed, keep an eye out for other water lovers, boats, water skis, and any debris that might be floating nearby, you want to avoid both to lessen the damage you may obtain. You will need to fight the urge to speed up, instead you’ll need to slow your boat down. The first thing that inexperienced boaters want to do is speed up to outrun the oncoming storm, this almost never works and can end in unthinkable circumstances. Should you find yourself out in the middle of an ocean or any large body of water and the waves are becoming rougher, slow your speed. Let’s get to the points… Reduce your Speed These old techniques are well proved and valid for rough waters of different situations.
#Reading white water drift boating how to#
We should know the proper techniques to learn how to drive a boat in rough water. Techniques To Drive A Boat In Rough Water Using the distress signals that you’ve put in place can be the difference between safety and peril. Just because one storm passed you over, doesn’t mean that another one will be so gracious, so you want to get yourself to safety or your systems back up as soon as you can if they have gone out. Veteran boaters that understand will have an easier time making it through rough waters. Novice boaters that are not prepared by the tips provided, will have a harder time even knowing how to handle rougher currents.
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So knowing how to navigate safely through them is no easy task, but can be learned with trial and error. While avoiding rougher waters is your best course of action, it isn’t always possible. So knowing how your boat handles in different situations is a top priority before heading out onto open waters. Although they are created for the same reason, no two boats or crafts handle the same. Know Your Craft/Know Your Distress Signalsīe certain you know the ins and outs of your boat or craft.
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*Storm warnings occur when winds could strengthen to 48-63 knotsīe sure to listen to the weather before and during your trip, and keep alert to changing weather patterns. *Gale warnings occur when winds could strengthen to 34-47 knots Gusting or Strong winds are 20-33 knots=24-37 mph *Small craft warnings occur when winds are mild, light, moderate, and strong. Mild or Light winds are 1-14 knots=1-16 mphīreezy or Moderate winds are 15-19 knots=17-22 mph
The following marine warnings that every water enthusiast should learn. Marine wind warnings are issued in knots and nautical mph instead of the regular mph that everyone understands. The National Weather Service will announce marine warnings if the threat is out there.īy understanding the language of the NWS, you will know what to look and listen for.
#Reading white water drift boating professional#
It’s not unusual for professional boaters to check the weather forecast every half hour or more because as mentioned before Mother Nature is unpredictable and a force to be reckoned with. Once you create your float plan, let anyone else that is going to be on the boat with you understand its importance and understand what part they might play in getting through rougher times.Īlso make sure that everyone on the boat knows where the emergency supplies like float rings, life jackets, first aid kits, emergency lights, food, and other items are located.Īlong with an emergency plan and emergency supplies, always keep on hand and in the boat a few other items such as satellite radar, a GPS unit, VHF-FM Marine Radio, navigational charts, and a hand-held compass in case you get stuck in a storm and loose electrical power.Īlso bring extra fuel along, because if you run into a storm, it can eat your fuel supply up leaving you stranded. Any boat captain can tell you that having an emergency float plan can be a lifesaver. Be sure you have a plan in case of an emergency. How To Drive A Boat In Rough Water Safety First and Proper SuppliesĪlways be prepared for the inevitable.