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A Simple Guide to Driving a Boat

Nov. 12 2021 How To By Rockingham Boat

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You want to buy a boat and you look forward to taking it out for the first time. Also, you are probably not confident enough with your boat driving skills. Do not worry too much, with a few tips on boat driving you will be good to go. Before we get to the driving tips be sure you get your boat from a reliable dealership. Rockingham Boat has great deals on boats. For more information, visit our location in Hampstead, New Hampshire, serving Manchester and Nashua.

How to Drive a Boat

Here is an easy approach to driving a boat for the first time

When buying the boat confirm if it is powered by a gasoline engine. If that is the case, run the exhaust fan before starting the engine.

  • Begin reading through the pre-departure checklist.
  • When ready, insert the key into the ignition and start the engine.
  • Now confirm you have all the gear you need. If you have any passengers, ensure they are ready to go.
  • Release the boat from any lines that secure it at the dock.
  • The boat should be moving at this point. Now turn the wheel gently, as you do with cars, and step on the throttle.
  • Once you are clear from the dock and push a little more on the throttle to get the boat up to the desired speed.
  • When you feel the speed is too high or you need to slow down, pull back the throttle.

Do You Have an Inboard or Outboard Motor?

There are two common motors for boats. An inboard motor is on the inside of the boat near the hull while an outboard motor is on the outside of the boat.

Boat owners defer on which is the best motor. They argue that an inboard motor is the best choice for driving at sea. The reason is that the center weight of the inboard engine reduces motion.

In the debate over speed, the outboard motor is the undisputed winner. It is because the engine is mounted at the end of the board allows for less friction.

When driving a boat with an outboard engine, you may need to steer the boat using a tiller.

Driving a Boat With a Tiller Steering

Prime the motor and adjust the choke–press the primer button several times and pull the starter code.

Change the direction of the motor to go forward or backward–you can use a lever to switch forward or reverse. For some boats, you will twist the handle to turn the engine for forward or reverse movement.

To speed the boat, twist the handle at the tiller’s end.

If your boat has an outboard motor, you can pull the tiller in your direction or outwards to steer.

To learn more, stop by Rockingham Boat in Hampstead, New Hampshire, serving Manchester and Nashua.