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Combat Propwalk

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Propwalk can be quite frustrating on sailboats with a drive shaft. On most boats  the aft of the boat “walks”  to the port when the engine is put into reverse. It seems like there is nothing you can do.

Watching this animation will help you deal with and combat prop walk when backing into a slip. Note that however it is always best to start out far away from your slip with the aft pointed into wind. Then engage reverse at low revs. Once the boat speed has picked up, water flow over the rudder will combat the prop walk effect and you can begin to steer the boat in what  ever direction you want. Water flow over the rudder is key to combating prop walk. Therefore DO NOT stop the boat’s motion before the boat enters the slip. To do so  will be to start the boat from standing position again where the prop walk will take over and completely embarrass you in front of the entire marina.

Play the animation below.

 

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Maneuvering Under Power

Author

  • Grant Headifen

    My vision for NauticEd is to ensure that families and friends get out on the water not only safely but with true COMPETENCE, confidently savoring every moment of their valuable time.

    Achieving this means being the pinnacle of sailing and boating education—offering comprehensive multi-media theoretical instruction coupled with hands-on, on-the-water training through our global network of American National Standards Instructors. We steadfastly avoid becoming a mere certification mill; our focus is on delivering genuine competence, ensuring our students are well-prepared for enjoyable, real-world boating experiences.

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Last updated on April 15th, 2023
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