Newbie to single inboard...

[The Dog House]

Oh Boy. Dog House - there is a boat simulator program??

Yes there is. I spent $40 to purchase it and it was worth every penny! I can vary the boat, current, and wind to practice different situations. I designed a boat that is close to my F26 but not exact. The simulator boat has way too much steerage in reverse. When using the simulator, I always make sure my rudder is centered before going in reverse. It's not perfect, but it is closer to what I actually can do.

I spent the Winter practicing different combinations of wind and current and figuring out the best way to safely get on and off the dock. I estimate that I was able to get 5 years worth of experience over the Winter. It made a tremendous difference in my ability to handle my boat this season. Since last year was my first season with a single screw inboard, I wasn't very good at maneuvering it. I'm much better this year.

If anyone is interested, the program is located at www.boatmaster.org. It's a free download and can be used 5 times before you have to purchase it. I highly recommend it as a training tool. It's not really a "game", and I don't think your kids will enjoy playing with it, but for practicing driving a boat it's very good.

[larryeddington]

Get a copy of Chapmans Seamanship it has a good explanation of what is happening under your boat and instruction how to cope and accomplish anything. What your are dealing with is two forces one is rudder direction particular in forward gear and side thrust when backing down. with now throttle or very little you should be able to control the beast.

[dlattan]

Thanks Larry.

I got a copy of Chapman's after your post last year and it was very helpful. My recent post was just an update on how I solved the problem mechanically.

Thanks,

Dave