Boat handling
Governing: STCW Code Table A-VI/2-2. Builds on: L1.1, L1.2; Tender Driving: Powerboat Level 1 and 2; Advanced Powerboat.
The competence take charge of a fast rescue boat after launching requires knowledge of the particular characteristics, facilities and limitations of FRBs and how to handle one in prevailing and adverse weather and sea conditions. The criterion is operation within equipment limitations in the prevailing weather. Separately, you must start and operate the FRB engine as required for manoeuvring.
What makes FRBs different
- Power-to-weight. Capable of well over 20 knots with three aboard (L1.1), so they can get airborne off a crest.
- Light and beamy. Susceptible to wind, especially when lightly loaded.
- Deep-vee hull. Good in a head sea at the right speed, harsh at the wrong one.
- Waterjets on some yacht boats: no propeller in the water near a casualty, but different handling at low speed and in reverse.
Crew positions and trim
| Situation | Weight | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Head sea | Aft and central | Keep the bow up, reduce slamming |
| Following sea | Aft | Stop the bow burying |
| Turning hard | Low and inboard | Reduce the risk of a crew member thrown out |
| Casualty aboard | Casualty central, low | Minimise movement |
Everyone holds on with both hands and feet under straps. The coxswain wears the kill cord.
Sea technique
Head sea. Find the speed at which the boat rides over the waves rather than through or off them. Take waves slightly off the bow, ease the throttle at the crest, power on down the back.
Beam sea. Watch for breaking crests; turn into the dangerous ones.
Following sea. Keep on the back of the wave ahead; do not overtake it and bury the bow. A broach puts the boat beam-on in the breaking crest.
Turning. Turn in the trough or on the back of a wave, not on the crest.
Engine
The competence requires starting and operating the FRB engine and accessories. Before leaving the ship's side, check: kill cord, fuel, cooling tell-tale, gear engagement. Listen for changes in note that suggest fouling or cavitation.
Working close to the ship
- Keep clear of the propellers, stabiliser fins and thrusters.
- Approach in the lee and parallel to the hull.
- Watch the ship's wash and suction when she has way on.
WARNING - Limitations are real The criterion is operation 'within equipment limitations'. That includes the limits of your crew. A coxswain who drives beyond them injures crew and casualty.
CAUTION - Guests at the rail Guests watching a rescue will try to help or film. Keep them clear of the launching area and the recovery.
Night and reduced visibility
Reduce speed in proportion to what you can see. Use the searchlight sparingly (it ruins night vision), keep a dedicated lookout and radio contact with the yacht, and have the yacht track you by radar.
TIP - Practise slow Most rescues are won at 2 knots next to a casualty, not at 25 knots. Practise precise slow-speed handling as much as speed work.