Canal Boat Skipper - Boat mover, instructor and coach

The following checklist will ensure a smooth boat move and I can help guide you through the process.

Items required

•  Copy of Boat Insurance. 
•  Copy of Canal & River Trust license or relevant license.
•  Copy of Boat Safety Certificate.
•  Proof of ownership.

Boat operation

• The hull and superstructure of the boat must be in an acceptable and safe condition.  
• The boat should have sufficient fuel and gas on board for the journey, or to be able   to reach a fuel/gas point 
• Ensure the navigation lights, tunnel lamp, and horn are in working order. 
• Check the tiller or wheel with the rudder is in good working order.
• Please advise the skipper of the location of any isolation valves and switches for gas/water/electric and any tools that may be needed.  
• Please hand to the helm;
  • Door keys.
  • Engine keys, including any isolator keys.
  • Service keys (water, fuel, gas, pump-out.)
  • Navigation keys (BWB, EA Abloy, etc.) 

Boat equipment

• Confirm access to and condition of fire extinguishers and any other emergency equipment on board.
• Make sure relevant boat equipment is present and serviceable;

               a) Windlasses. 

               b) Ropes – (bow line, stern line, centre line, etc) 

               c) Mooring pins and hammers, chains, mooring hooks, etc. 

               d) Fenders. 

               e) Anchor chain, rope and fittings for river use.

               f ) Plank, pole and boathook.

Engine checks 

•  Check the oil level. 
•  Check the coolant level.
•  Check tension and condition of drive belts. 
•  Check the gearbox fluid level. 
•  Check the engine is running within the normal temperature range.
•  Check the engine mounts are in good condition. 
•  Check the stern gland greaser is filled.
•  Check the bilge pump works and clear any excess water from the bilges. 
•  Check the battery condition and isolator switches. 
•  Check all gauges are working and that the engine stops correctly.
•  Check the weed-hatch, prop is clear of any debris and secure.

Domestic

•  Please ensure that the domestic water tank is full.
•  Please advise on sleeping arrangements and cooking facilities if required. 
•  Please ensure that there is adequate fuel for any heating if required. 

Communication

• Please provide contact details and advise when you would like to be contacted during the boat move.