OUR CHECKLISTS
Checklists are critical
We use checklists for a lot of different things related to Elvin Ray. We have a pre-move checklist when we are getting ready to trailer her somewhere. Before we launch, we have a checklist. We have maintenance checklists, project checklists, and a few others.
Checklists help prevent mistakes
When you‘re getting ready to head to the lake or even a longer trip to the coast, there is a natural tendancy to want to get moving. When you’re ready to launch the boat, there’s a desire to move quickly. These tendencies are why we use checklists. Miss one item on the list, and it won’t be the end of the world, miss others and it makes for a really bad day. In the end, it makes boating more enjoyable for us.
In order to be efficient with the lists, we use the Notes app on our iPhones with a shared note that allows us to both work with the checklist simultaneously. Generally, we have our headsets on and call out the items to each other.
Pre-move checklist
Used EVERY TIME we move the boat on the trailer
We start on the inside, working our way outside and around the boat.
Boat Interior:
- Berth secure
- Nothing that would move around and damage anything
- Head secure
- Door closed and locked
- Nothing that would move around and damage anything
- Head Pump locked
- Helm
- Electronics off
- Electronics covered
- Engine Switch off/key out
- Autopilot Remote stored
- Salon secure
- Nothing that would move around and damage anything
- Nothing on table or chairs
- Windows closed and locked
- Salon door closed and locked
- Galley Secure
- Cabinets organized to minimize shifting
- Nothing unsecured on counters/table
- Trash can empty
- Water pump off
- Refrigerator closed and locked
- Cabinets closed and locked
- Leave House Battery Switch on for fridge
Boat Exterior:
- Cockpit closed and locked
- Cockpit Clear
- Fenders off
- Lines off
- Hatches locked
- Seat Covers off (if over 55mph)
- Bimini off (if over 55mph)
- Honda generator locked down
- Engine up with support in place
- Bolsters off
- Antenna Down
- Mast down
- Anchor locked
- Drain plugs out
- Ladder up
Trailer:
- Tire pressure checked
- Safety chains connected
- Hitch connected and locked
- Trailer lights connected
- Brake lockout connected
- Boat lights connected
- Safety straps checked
- Winch tight and locked
Truck:
- Mirrors out
- Trailer brakes configured
- Tire pressure check
