Second Time Casting Off

[@drgarrykraft6355]

Before even starting the engine, I have a checklist of everything that needs to be done from looking at the engines, checking all fluids, are life jackets ready, all electrical switches correct, etc etc. Like a pilot before take off, even though they've flown multiple thousands of hours, still review the checklist before firewalling the throttles!

[@AskCaptainChris]

@@drgarrykraft6355 and the checklist must be specific to your boat for it to be successful. Someone else’s checklist might be a good start but must be tailored to fit. Thx for sharing what works for you

[@fcguy7]

"doing very well" I must strongly disagree here. The first thing my dad ever did was have me practice port and starboard with soup cans at the kitchen table. He said "until those become second nature where you don't have to even think which one is which you don't even get to touch the real throttles" The fact that you had to say "your other port/starboard" *multiple* times means that he was not at all prepared and in fact did not do "very well" It's quite detrimental to give positive feedback on poor performance. And I get it, it's his second time. But again he should absolutely know port and starboard before taking the helm.

[@AskCaptainChris]

@@fcguy7nervous excitement as a new boat owner. We didn’t use soup cans because he owned the real thing. You were lucky to have had a mentor at a young age. Many of our clients have never had that early opportunity yet are smart enough to realize they need a trainer and are willing to practice to build that muscle memory. Be careful out there as there are also some new boat owners who think they can just turn the key and go. Thanks for sharing what worked for you.

[@judehoward329]

Little fast on his shifting, nervous of course, but slow is better! Hard to see out of rainy glass.

[@AskCaptainChris]

New boat owner, rainy day, Training Must Continue! They did much better with more practice!

[@charlesdavenport2543]

I still use throttles to get to the channel. It's a narrow fairway. Just a habit I guess.

[@AskCaptainChris]

A good habit. Great to hone your close quarters maneuvering skills.