Specifications

Chapter 6 – Mission Performance
NOTE
CAUTION !
13 Make contact with the forward sections of your boat (about
halfway between the bow and amidships). Use helm and power (if
not on a sea painter) to hold the bow into the other vessel at the
same forward speed. Do not use so much helm or power that you
cause the other vessel to change course.
14 Ensure that communication with the Operational Commander is
established to update the status of the assigned mission. If
personnel are to be embarked/disembarked on the vessel of
interest, utilize a boarding ladder as provided. Minimize the time
alongside. If necessary and following U.S. Coast Guard
instructions and SOP, “make-up” to the other vessel rather than
relying on helm and power to maintain contact.
15 When the mission is complete, embark all personnel. Sheer the
stern in with the helm to get the bow out. Avoid getting set toward
the side or stern of the vessel.
NOTE
16 If on a sea painter, use enough speed to get slack in the line, then
cast off when clear. Ensure the sea painter is hauled back aboard
the larger vessel immediately to keep it from getting caught in the
outdrive or mast.
CAUTION !
17 Apply gradual power to gain slight relative speed. Maneuver the
boat away from the vessel of interest. Continue to update position
and status of the mission with the Operational Commander.
If approaching a vessel anchored in a strong current, the sea painter
provides a means to lay alongside. Procedures are the same as if the
vessel is making way. Approach from leeward, against the current.
Use care when going alongside a vessel of interest so as not to
damage the collar.
If on a sea painter, its strain sheers the boat clear.
Never back down when clearing alongside, parallel to another vessel
that is making way. Outboard powered vessels with a large portion
of weight aft are susceptible for shipping water while backing,
particularly in a chop.
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