Launching, Loading, Travel, Operations, Care of Jetboats Checklist

[gthorson]

Has anyone ever endeavored to create a checklist to help remind them of all the things that are required for launching, loading, travel prep, operation, and care of their boat? My goal would be to have a laminated sheet in the boat that would remind me and all the people that may use the boat of what to do in each case. Some things are boating in general like install the plug and remove straps that you would think everyone would remember. Other things are jet specific that most non-jet operators wouldn't think about like drain cleanout ports or run engines dry. I don't like being the one and only repository of this info.

 

[Scottintexas]

yes, at least for launching / operation, I beleive TX8vatr did it many years ago,

maybe look in the FAQ section at the top of the page,

 

[Babin Farms]

I believe that @Bizywk also has a checklist. Maybe he’ll chime in.

 

[FiftyYardFistFight]

I'll take a kick at this. I haven't found a checklist on here yet, but I'll offer a contribution for your review. I'm a relatively new boater, so please feel free to offer your criticism for my improvement.

My background is as an airline pilot, so this informs how I created this. A checklist in my mind is not a grocery list and it is not a DO list. The point of a checklist like this is to save you from a mistake that may cause a safety problem or damage. It is simple and minimal - if it isn't safety or damage related, it doesn't belong on a checklist. You don't want to be distracted by extra items at the checklist phase. Your job is to prepare for the day. Load your gear and whatever you're taking. Do a geographical walkaround of your vehicle and boat. Test and inspect and be satisfied that you think you are ready. Do not rush.

When you think you are ready, call the checklist. If you have a friend handy, one reads, the other responds. Both of you are paying attention.

There are 4 short checklists: Tow Out, Launch, Loading and Tow In. I added the Loading checklist, revised and separated the Tow Out and Tow In checklists. I haven't added emergency checklists yet, not sure how that would work.

UPDATED: See attachment. If you like it, you can cut it out, fold it and laminate it. 2 copies on one sheet. Easily fits in a pocket. Revision 2 as I use it and try to improve it.

 

[phm14]

I'll take a kick at this. I haven't found a checklist on here yet, but I'll offer a contribution for your review. I'm a relatively new boater, so please feel free to offer your criticism for my improvement.

My background is as an airline pilot, so this informs how I created this. A checklist in my mind is not a grocery list and it is not a DO list. The point of a checklist like this is to save you from a mistake that may cause a safety problem or damage. It is simple and minimal - if it isn't safety or damage related, it doesn't belong on a checklist. You don't want to be distracted by extra items at the checklist phase. Your job is to prepare for the day. Load your gear and whatever you're taking. Do a geographical walkaround of your vehicle and boat. Test and inspect and be satisfied that you think you are ready. Do not rush.

When you think you are ready, call the checklist. If you have a friend handy, one reads, the other responds. Both of you are paying attention.

There are 4 short checklists: Tow Out, Launch, Loading and Tow In. I added the Loading checklist, revised and separated the Tow Out and Tow In checklists. I haven't added emergency checklists yet, not sure how that would work.

UPDATED: See attachment. If you like it, you can cut it out, fold it and laminate it. 2 copies on one sheet. Easily fits in a pocket. Revision 2 as I use it and try to improve it.

That's cool. I do lists like this, for backcountry excursions. I'm still on a single page list, that covers similar items to yours, but also covers the "to do" & "to bring" items that come up when you make a interstate trip to mountains or high desert. I've saved and printed your checklist, which is very comprehensive, for day trips. I'll use it as a basis for my own list, for the new '24 AR195 I just made a deal on.

 

[FiftyYardFistFight]

I'd be interested in any updates you make for a different boat. Enjoy the new ride!

 

[AlpharettaRK]

Nice list! I would add “unplug lights” to launch list.

 

[FiftyYardFistFight]

I had a friend mention this as well. Good catch.