How do I find the capacity of my boat?
Look for a capacity plate near the operator’s position or on the transom of the boat. This plate indicates the maximum weight capacity and/or the maximum number of people that the boat can carry safely in good weather. You should not exceed either the stated maximum weight capacity or the maximum number of people.
How do you calculate maximum horsepower for a boat?
The federal government regulates the horsepower of outboard motors that can be installed on boats. The maximum HP is determined by calculating the boat’s factor (the length multiplied by the width) and then looking up the allowable engine size in a table.
How is boat load capacity calculated?
If your boat does not have a capacity plate, the U.S. Coast Guard recommends the following formula for calculating maximum occupancy: multiply the boat’s length times its width and divide by 15. For example, a 6-foot wide, 18-foot boat can carry up to seven people safely.
What is the boat capacity?
The Maximum Gross Load is the total weight your boat can handle, including people, equipment, stores, fuel, engine assembly and steering controls. If your boat doesn’t have a Capacity Plate, you can calculate the number of people you can safely take onboard using the following equation.
Can I exceed my boat capacity?
While it is not a Federal violation for a boat owner to exceed the listed capacities, many states do have statutes prohibiting the carriage of people and gear in excess of the stated capacity, or the installation of a motor that exceeds the recommended horse power limit.
What should you always do before starting an inboard engine?
If you have an inboard gasoline engine, you need to turn on the blower for four full minutes before starting your boat. This very important step is to remove any fumes that could be lingering in the bilge. All portable fuel tanks must be filled off of the boat.
Does a dog count as a person on a boat?
Some safety professionals suggest counting your dog as a person in the boat because they can require space (taking up a seat) and can move on their own inside the boat. Definitely include their weight when calculating your boat capacity.
What is the problem with using your boats engine to drive it onto a trailer?
NOTE – While many people drive the boat onto the trailer, it isn’t advised. Using the engine to assist trailering erodes the ramp bed, can lead to debris being sucked into the engine, and can cause an accident! Make sure you drain all water from the boat – the bilge, the live well, the trailer lights, etc.