In this session, you'll learn how to maintain
directional control at minimum speed keeping your boat on a predetermined course
for a distance of at least five boat lengths.
You'll also learn how to maintain a proper lookout
by performing frequent 360-degree visual checks
and identifying potential hazards.
And you'll learn the concept of rotational momentum,
which will help you avoid over steering by using the technique of counter-steering.
What problems are we trying to avoid?
Not maintaining a predetermined course within more than ten degrees –
or the equivalent of two minutes clock time.
Being unable to keep your boat on a predetermined course
for fifty yards at minimum control speed.
Over steering most of the time.
And not maintaining a proper lookout throughout the entire maneuver.
Not being aware of other boats and hazards in the environment.
Not making 360-degree full-circle scans in the area
in which your boat is operating.
Not thoroughly checking the area to which your boat is to be maneuvered.
And seeming to be unaware of impending collisions or other issues that may require action.
So, how do we do it right?
First, choose a fixed point such as a shore landmark
or navigation marker or buoy to serve as a target destination
for your desired course.
If possible, create a range comprised of one near and one far away fixed points,
to help guide you more than a single point.
Steer smoothly making small adjustments.
When the boat deviates a few degrees off course, steer back toward the course direction –
this creates rotational momentum, which will keep the boat turning
until you counter-steer to stop the turn.
Put the wheel in the opposite direction to slow the swing of the bow and resume course.
By counter-steering you will avoid over steering.
Keep your boat on a predetermined course for a distance of one-hundred fifty yards
under minimum control speed.
In open water, use a compass direction as a general guide.
Adjust for cross-wind or current by turning into the wind or current
to stay on the desired course.
But again, choose a point on the horizon or a cloud in the sky
rather than relying on the compass to steer.
By making small adjustments,
as soon as the boat's head starts to deviate from course from your visual target,
stay on your predetermined course within ten degrees –
or two minutes of clock-time.
Spot check the compass, and adjust your visual target as needed.
Maintain a proper lookout through the entire maneuver.
Be fully aware of other boats and hazards in the environment.
Make full-circle scans of the area in which your boat is operating,
pausing at other boats or hazards and paying most attention
toward the direction to which your boat is to be maneuvered.
With practice, you'll be able to maintain directional control
at minimum speed keeping your boat on a predetermined course
for a distance of at least five boat lengths.
You'll employ the technique of counter-steering to compensate for rotational momentum.
You'll also be able to maintain a proper lookout by performing frequent 360-degree visual checks and identifying potential hazards.