64’ out islander
TRANSCRIPT
64-foot Out Islander
Long Range Expedition Cruiser
Operating Manual
(April 2022)
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Table of Contents
1.0 Welcome Aboard ................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 History .............................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Disclaimer ......................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Important Vessel Numbers .............................................................................................. 3
2.0 General Description ............................................................................................................. 4
2.1 Design ............................................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Layout ............................................................................................................................... 5
2.3 Foredeck ........................................................................................................................... 6
2.4 Aft Deck ............................................................................................................................ 6
2.5 Fly Bridge and Boat Deck .................................................................................................. 6
2.6 Salon ................................................................................................................................. 6
2.7 Pilothouse ......................................................................................................................... 7
2.8 Galley ................................................................................................................................ 7
2.9 Master Stateroom ............................................................................................................ 8
2.10 VIP Stateroom .................................................................................................................. 9
2.11 Guest Cabin ...................................................................................................................... 9
2.12 Generator Room ............................................................................................................... 9
2.13 Engine Room .................................................................................................................... 9
2.14 Amidships Mechanical Compartment ............................................................................ 10
3.0 Safety Equipment Locations .............................................................................................. 11
3.1 Anchors ........................................................................................................................... 11
3.2 Bilge Pumps .................................................................................................................... 11
3.3 High Water Alarm ........................................................................................................... 11
3.4 Dingy Dry Bag ................................................................................................................. 12
3.5 Emergency Exit ............................................................................................................... 12
3.6 EPIRB .............................................................................................................................. 12
3.7 Fire Extinguishers ........................................................................................................... 12
3.8 First Aid Kit ..................................................................................................................... 12
3.9 Flares .............................................................................................................................. 12
3.10 Horn ................................................................................................................................ 12
3.11 Navigation Lights ............................................................................................................ 12
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3.12 Life Preservers / PFD ...................................................................................................... 12
3.13 Life Ring .......................................................................................................................... 12
3.14 MARPOL Trash Placard ................................................................................................... 13
3.15 Pollution Placard ............................................................................................................ 13
3.16 Smoke / Carbon Monoxide Alarms ................................................................................ 13
3.17 Spotlight ......................................................................................................................... 13
3.18 VHF Radios ...................................................................................................................... 13
3.19 Windshield Washer / Wiper ........................................................................................... 13
4.0 Domestic Systems .............................................................................................................. 14
4.1 Lighting ........................................................................................................................... 14
4.2 Fresh Water System ....................................................................................................... 14
4.2.1 Sump Pumps ........................................................................................................... 15
4.2.2 Watermaker ............................................................................................................ 15
4.3 Head Systems ................................................................................................................. 15
4.3.1 Holding Tank Monitor ............................................................................................. 16
4.4 Air Conditioning .............................................................................................................. 16
4.5 Galley and Appliances .................................................................................................... 17
4.5.1 Cooktop ................................................................................................................... 17
4.5.2 Oven ........................................................................................................................ 17
4.5.3 Barbeque ................................................................................................................. 17
4.5.4 Washer & Dryer ...................................................................................................... 17
4.5.5 Refrigerators ........................................................................................................... 17
4.6 A/V Entertainment System ............................................................................................ 17
4.6.1 Salon TV................................................................................................................... 17
4.6.2 Salon Audio ............................................................................................................. 18
4.6.3 Bluray ...................................................................................................................... 18
4.6.4 Bluetooth Streaming ............................................................................................... 18
4.6.5 Whole Yacht Audio ................................................................................................. 18
4.6.6 Flybridge Stereo ...................................................................................................... 19
5.0 Electrical Systems ............................................................................................................... 19
5.1 110-volt and 220-volt AC Panel ...................................................................................... 19
5.1.1 Generators .............................................................................................................. 20
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5.1.2 Shorepower ............................................................................................................. 20
5.1.3 Inverter ................................................................................................................... 20
5.1.4 Batteries .................................................................................................................. 21
5.1.5 Charging the Batteries ............................................................................................ 21
6.0 Engines ............................................................................................................................... 22
6.1 Daily Engine Checks ........................................................................................................ 22
6.1.1 Check the Sea Strainers .......................................................................................... 23
6.1.2 Check the Coolant Level .......................................................................................... 24
6.1.3 Oil drips ................................................................................................................... 24
6.1.4 Fuel Filters ............................................................................................................... 24
6.1.5 Engine Oil ................................................................................................................ 25
6.1.6 Visually Inspect the Engine Room ........................................................................... 25
6.1.7 Check the Transmission Oil Level ............................................................................ 25
6.2 Engine Controls .............................................................................................................. 26
6.2.1 Station Transfer....................................................................................................... 26
6.2.2 Synchronizing Engine RPM...................................................................................... 26
6.2.3 Engine Start-Up ....................................................................................................... 27
6.2.4 Shaft Seals ............................................................................................................... 27
6.2.5 Main Engine Operating Parameters ....................................................................... 27
6.3 Fuel System .................................................................................................................... 28
6.3.1 Fuel Management ................................................................................................... 28
6.3.2 Checking the Fuel Level........................................................................................... 28
6.3.3 Filling the Fuel Tanks ............................................................................................... 29
7.0 Electronic Aids to Navigation ............................................................................................. 30
7.1 VHF radio ........................................................................................................................ 30
7.2 Autopilot and rudder indicator ...................................................................................... 30
7.3 Chartplotter and Radar .................................................................................................. 31
7.4 Sounder .......................................................................................................................... 32
7.5 Automated Identification System .................................................................................. 32
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8.0 Maneuvering ...................................................................................................................... 32
8.1 Docking & Undocking ..................................................................................................... 32
8.2 Maneuvering in a Harbor ............................................................................................... 33
9.0 Anchoring ........................................................................................................................... 33
9.1 Setting the Anchor ......................................................................................................... 34
9.2 Retrieving the Anchor .................................................................................................... 35
9.3 Shore Tie or Stern Tie ..................................................................................................... 35
9.4 Rafting ............................................................................................................................ 36
9.5 Anchor and Ground Tackle ............................................................................................. 37
9.5.1 Primary Anchor ....................................................................................................... 37
9.5.2 Secondary Anchor ................................................................................................... 37
9.5.3 Anchor Chain Markings ........................................................................................... 37
9.5.4 Anchor Windlass ..................................................................................................... 38
9.5.5 Lowering the Anchor ............................................................................................... 38
9.5.6 Raising the Anchor .................................................................................................. 38
9.5.7 Chain Locker ............................................................................................................ 38
9.5.8 Anchor Bridle .......................................................................................................... 38
9.5.9 Anchor Rode Jams ................................................................................................... 38
9.5.10 Saltwater Washdown Pump ................................................................................... 39
10.0 Bilge Pumps ........................................................................................................................ 39
11.0 Bow and Stern Thrusters ................................................................................................... 40
12.0 Roll Stabilizers .................................................................................................................... 40
12.1.1 Caution .................................................................................................................... 40
12.1.2 Start-up Procedure.................................................................................................. 40
13.0 Tender, Davit, and Outboard Motor .................................................................................. 41
14.0 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................. 42
14.1 Engine overheating ........................................................................................................ 42
14.2 Fuel filter ........................................................................................................................ 42
14.3 Outboard motor ............................................................................................................. 42
14.4 Low battery .................................................................................................................... 43
14.5 Anchor ............................................................................................................................ 43
14.5.1 Anchor chain is stuck in anchor locker ................................................................... 43
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14.5.2 Anchor is stuck on the bottom ............................................................................... 43
14.5.3 Anchor windlass will not turn ................................................................................. 43
14.6 Toilet will not flush ......................................................................................................... 44
14.7 Freshwater does not flow at faucet ............................................................................... 44
14.8 Hitting a log .................................................................................................................... 44
14.9 Hitting a rock or submerged object ............................................................................... 45
14.10 Running into a fishing net .............................................................................................. 45
15.0 Operating Checklists .......................................................................................................... 46
15.1 Engine Room Checks ...................................................................................................... 46
15.2 Starting Engines .............................................................................................................. 46
15.3 After the Engines Have Started ...................................................................................... 46
15.4 Stopping the Engines ...................................................................................................... 47
15.5 Starting the Generator(s) ............................................................................................... 47
15.6 Switch from Shore Power ............................................................................................... 47
15.7 Stopping the Generator(s) ............................................................................................. 47
15.8 Switch from Generator to Inverter ................................................................................ 47
15.9 Preparing to Leave the Dock .......................................................................................... 48
15.10 Immediately After Leaving the Dock .............................................................................. 48
15.11 Normal Cruising .............................................................................................................. 48
15.12 Approaching Dock .......................................................................................................... 48
15.13 Arriving at Dock .............................................................................................................. 48
15.14 Connecting to Shore Power ........................................................................................... 48
15.15 Anchoring ....................................................................................................................... 49
15.16 Pulling up Anchor ........................................................................................................... 50
16.0 Emergency Procedures ...................................................................................................... 51
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1.0 Welcome Aboard
La Vida is an Out Islander 64 – a custom designed “do it all” long range expedition yacht. The
concept is “form follows function”, where function is living aboard, exploring, anchoring out,
fishing and diving. It is a yacht designed for the owner-operator, easily handled, rugged outside,
and complemented with luxury inside. She has a comfortable ride, is fuel efficient at
displacement speeds, and has a max speed of 19 knots to outrun weather, or reach a destination
fast when needed.
Her spacious layout includes a large salon for hosting, a king-sized bed in the master suite, a walk-
around queen in the VIP, a roomy galley with plenty of storage, a separate dinette, wide
companionways, and a large aft deck and fly bridge. For entertaining, she is equipped with a
wine cooler, freezer, a 5.1 surround entertainment system, and a whole yacht audio system.
There are five different operating stations with bow and stern thrusters to ensure easy docking
in any situation. Fully equipped with 6 Air Conditioning units, 2 generators, washer & dryer, and
an 800 gallon per day water maker makes La Vida a truly versatile expedition yacht, appointed
with everything you need to comfortably enjoy your cruise.
1.1 History
The Out Islander began with Greg Sturgis. Greg was the East coast Offshore Yachts distributor
for 14 years, the largest dealer for Rampage for 5 years, and a dealer for Islander and Tartan
sailboats in the early 1980s. His experience in building, outfitting, and delivering yachts led to his
interest in building the ideal yacht for his cruising lifestyle.
The late Tom Fexas is a nationally known yacht designer in Stuart, Florida. He first won acclaim
in 1978 with his “Midnight Lace” design, and had since went on to design many production and
custom yachts for Cheoy Lee, Palmer Johnson, Grand Banks, Mikelson, and more. Sturgis
contacted him about his idea of a swiss-army knife, do it all, rugged, but with a luxury interior,
yacht. After several years, the project got underway in 2005.
Greg’s history with Offshore Yachts led to his decision to have the yacht be built by Carmague
Yacht Co. in Taiwan. Carmague has built over 100 Offshore Yachts, where they are known for
their excellent workmanship and use of top of the line components. The result is a quality
expedition yacht that looks like a cross between a Nordhavn and an Offshore.
The Out Islander 64 is the last yacht design by Fexas before he passed in 2006, and it was unveiled
at the Miami Boat Show in 2009. It is an unmistakable Tom Fexas Design – a semi-displacement
hull that allows for long range capability or speed when needed. It exemplifies his deft touch of
designing yachts that do their intended job really well.
Unfortunately, this is the only Out Islander 64 built, as the 2009 recession hit the yachting
industry hard and the company never got off the ground. For more information, there are several
articles featuring the Out Islander 64 in the La Vida information folder.
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1.2 Disclaimer
This operating manual is an introduction to the motor yacht La Vida, and her features such as
the safety, electrical, domestic, propulsion and control systems. This manual will help you
operate this vessel with confidence however, this manual is not intended to replace a basic
understanding of seamanship. It is the responsibility of the charter guest to have knowledge of
the ‘Rules of the Road,’ and basic skills of navigation, boat handling, and interpretation of
weather conditions. This knowledge can be gained through powerboat training classes offered
by NW Explorations.
Motor yachts are propelled and control with complicated equipment. This manual is intended
to provide a ‘working’ explanations of how these systems operate. For an in-depth explanation
of how a particular system operates, you are encouraged to study the manuals that can be
found onboard, or on the internet. For example, to fully understand the use of electronic
navigation systems, we recommend reviewing instructional videos that can be viewed at the
manufacturer’s website or, on YouTube.
NW Explorations assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions of this operating manual
and represents only that the writings and illustrations herein represent our “best efforts” to
provide a comprehensive overview of the vessel, so that it can be operated by a person who
has the necessary experience and/or training to operate such a vessel given the additional
information herein.
You should be aware that this operating manual is provided as a convenience to the owners,
crew members, and guests on this vessel, and is not complete in every detail. Given the
complexity of this boat and its systems, it is not possible that all conditions, contingencies, and
operating details can be included, both because of space limitations and because of ordinary
oversight as contingencies are speculated upon by NW Explorations. Likewise, it is possible
either through oversight and/or changes in the vessel because of additions, modifications, or
deletions to or of equipment since publication of this manual, that items discussed will operate
differently than described, be absent from the vessel, or be added to the vessel without
discussion in this volume.
As a vessel owner, crew member or charter guest on this vessel, you are here at your own risk,
and it is your responsibility to be trained and prepared to operate the vessel. If you do not feel
competent to undertake any or all operations detailed in this operating manual, contact NW
Explorations for addition training.
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1.3 Important Vessel Numbers
Vessel Name La Vida Capacities
Official Number 1258081 Sleeps 6
Hull ID OIY64021A009 Fuel 1860 Gallons
MMSI Number 368147160 Starboard 450 Gallons
Radio Call Sign WDL6077 Center 462 Gallons
Port 453 Gallons
Dimensions Lazarette 495 Gallons
Length Waterline 58’ 1” Fresh Water 400 Gallons
Length Hull 64’ Holding Tank 150 Gallons
Length Overall 68’ 8” Hot Water 20 Gallons
Beam 19’ 5” Fluids
Draft 5’ 3” Main Engine Fuel Diesel
Air Draft Main Engine Oil Chevron Delo 15W-40
Displacement 108,000 lbs. Transmission Oil Shell Rotella 30W
Gross Tonnage 107 Engine Coolant CAT DEAC 50/50 mix
Net Tonnage 86 Generator Fuel Diesel
Generator Oil Chevron Delo 15W-40
Generator Coolant CAT DEAC 50/50 mix
Engine Operating Parameters
RPM Fuel Burn (g/h) Speed (knots) Efficiency
(nm/g)
1,000 11.51 8.4 0.7
1,200 15.51 9.8 0.6
1,400 25.01 11.2 0.4
1,600 35.81 12.2 0.3
1,800 36.82
2,000 49.62
1. Measured values
2. Caterpillar engine specifical data sheet
NW Exploration Service Shop: 360-393-5309
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2.0 General Description
2.1 Design
The Out Islander 64 is a semi-displacement pilothouse expedition yacht. Its hull design allows for
a smooth and seaworthy ride. It is fuel efficient at displacement speeds, yet can reach a max
speed of 19 knots. She is solidly built to handle passage-making, with solid laminate below the
water line, and core-cell infused house and deck to provide light weight and strength. She has a
long shallow keel infused with 3500lb of lead shot provides exceptional stability and pleasant
motion at sea. The keel also extends past the props and rudders to provide protection for the
running gear.
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2.2 Layout
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2.3 Foredeck
The foredeck can be accessed through a door from the Portuguese bridge. Up forward, at the
anchor platform are a saltwater spigot to port, and freshwater spigot to starboard. The large
anchor platform holds the two anchors, both of which are controlled by foot switches for the
windlasses. The black water pump out is on the port side against the Portuguese bridge.
The storage lockers in the bridge contain the fenders, lines, buckets, hoses, cleaning supplies,
anchor bridle, etc. Basically you can find all the wet gear stored here.
2.4 Aft Deck
The aft deck has two deck hatches in the cockpit. The starboard hatch holds the Village Marine
water maker, and the port hatch holds the Cable Master system. Both have lots of room for
storage. The lazarette bilge and steering rams are accessible through the hatches. The BBQ is
on the port side of the cockpit and the cockpit freezer is on the starboard side. The steps up to
the lanai deck lifts for access to the generator and engine room. The lanai deck has an aft facing
setee to port, with life jackets in the bench hatch. The aft helm control station is on the starboard
side. Both sides have ice makers, capable of producing all the ice needed for your fresh catch.
2.5 Fly Bridge and Boat Deck
The large fly bridge is situated well aft, which reduces pitching and keeps it dry in rough seas.
This together with the great visibility around the boat makes this a great helm station. It is also
a great hang out place, with a L-lounge, split table, sun-lounge, drink fridge, and stereo. The wing
control stations are positioned on the outside of the bridge coaming, giving the skipper view of
the full length of the vessel, making these the ideal docking stations. The storage lockers contain
the davit control, hose, and dinghy repair supplies. The L-lounge bench contain additional life
jackets. To aft of the fly bridge is the boat deck, which holds the 14’ Novurania tender, life raft,
and life ring.
2.6 Salon
The large sliding door from the lanai deck opens to the spacious salon, with large windows for sit
down visibility to the views outside. It is outfitted for entertaining complete with a large flat
screen TV, 5.1 surround sound, large wine cooler, and seating for 8.
On your right, on the panel below the window, are the light switches, deck speaker volume
controls, and A/C. The top grey switch is for the deck blue/white Cantalupi lights – flick down
once to turn on, and flick it twice quickly to switch colors. The bottom white knob turns on the
rope lighting for a cozier atmosphere. The media cabinet on the right contains the entertainment
system (bluray, receiver, and amplifier) for the TV and whole boat audio. The toggle switch on
the left of the cabinet raises and lowers the TV from the cabinet. Hold the switch up to raise the
TV until it is fully raised. Please be sure to clear off any and all items from the wooden countertop
so as to not block the hinge mechanism.
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The far left top drawer contains remotes, batteries, and pens. The drawer below contains
stemware and beverages. The little drawer between the staircases contains keys, deck fill keys,
and flash lights. The storage ottoman bench contains board games for those long crossings, and
the seats flip over as serving trays. The electric hi-low main table can be raised and lowered by
a rocker switch behind the sofa, and can open up to make more room for dining.
2.7 Pilothouse
The raised pilothouse provides excellent views
from the helm except aft and has controls over all
the ships systems. The reverse raked pilothouse
windows shed water quickly in adverse weather
and doesn’t reflect the instrument lights, making
for better night vision if needed. The overhead
instrument panel contains convenient monitors
for tank levels, battery levels, bilge pumps, water
maker, and inverter. The main helm dash has two
Furuno NavNet 3D units, VHF, Autopilot, and
engine monitors. Below the helm are the 24-volt DC Panel to port and 120-volt AC panel to
starboard. The generator controls are to the right of the AC panel.
There are two 9K BTU Air Conditioning units for the pilot house. The upper panel controls the
vents against the windows, and the lower A/C panel controls the vent at the steering wheel. This
allows you to set the upper A/C unit to defrost the windows separately from the pilot house
climate. For operation procedures review Section 4.4.
The pilothouse has two heavy duty Airtex doors on either side of the bridge station. These are
super heavy so please take care when you open, close, and secure them. Two skylight hatches
above the bridge can open for ventilation, with built in shade and insect screens. For
entertainment under way, the helm has its own speakers, volume control, and subwoofer.
2.8 Galley
The galley is aft of the bridge and is outfitted to
thoroughly satisfy the home chef and the rest of
the party. The appliances include a Miele electric
range, GE electric stove, full size side by side GE
refrigerator, GE trash compactor, GE microwave,
and Insinkerator garbage disposal. There is a
Keurig K-Supreme Plus coffee maker that can use
both K-cups and ground coffee for the caffeine
addicts. And finally, there is a Cuisinart
multifunction blender, food processor, and juice
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extractor under the dinette for making blended drinks or healthy juice. For the gourmet chef, the
galley is equipped with various pots and pans, J. Henkels knife set, garlic press, galley tools, etc.
Opposite the galley is a dinette that converts to a
pilot companion berth, making a good place to
sleep during passage-making. The USB port at the
dinette is a high speed port that will charge your
phone or laptop very quickly. The large drawer
under the raised dinette sole holds paper charts.
2.9 Master Stateroom
One really nice feature of La Vida is the private stairs from the salon down to the full-beam master
stateroom, giving a sense of separate space for the guests on board. The cabinet to the right of
the staircase contains the first aid kit and miscellaneous toiletry needs.
The master stateroom has a large king sized walkaround berth, and tremendous amount of
storage drawers around. On the right is a large vanity desk, and a large hanging closet. The other
closet is to the left of the base of the stairs. The floor board in this closet opens up to the battery
compartment and master bilge. The master head is aft to port, with marble countertop and a
large shower.
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2.10 VIP Stateroom
VIP stateroom is forward with a queen sized berth, two
hanging closets, and storage throughout. It has a
private access to the shared second head. At the foot
of the bed under the carpet is the access to the forward
bilge and bow thruster. The cupboards at the head of
the bed can be opened by pushing on them to provide
access to a hatch that opens to the chain locker. When
bringing in the anchor chain, it frequently castles (piles
up and falls over) in the locker and requires that the
chain be pulled down in order to bring in the entire length. When hauling the anchor, use a boat
hook or similar device to flake the chain back and forth to build a neat pile (See section 9.5.9).
2.11 Guest Cabin
The port guest cabin has two raised single berths. This
raised design allows hanging lockers and the washer and
dryer to be tucked underneath. In the hanging locker are
paper charts and all manuals for the boat.
2.12 Generator Room
The steps to the lanai deck lift up for access to the generator room. Be very careful lowering this
heavy hatch. There is very little finger holds, and if not careful, you will smash your fingers. To
port is a Northern Lights 16kW and to starboard is a 20kW generator. Generators mounted in
whisper sound shield on EAR Anti-vibration mounts, making them exceptionally quiet to run even
at night time. They are barely noticeable from the staterooms and provide more than enough
power for all the systems running on the boat. Two Delta-T 12V blowers on both air vents ensure
this room is well ventilated. Fire suppression is automatic with a Fireboy MA-550FE-241.
A complete set of tools are in the DeWalt and Craftsman toolboxes in case something needs
repairs. Also stored in this room are fluids and parts. Motor Oil, Gear Oil, Hydraulic Fluid, are
secured on the floor against the generators. Diesel additive Stanadyne is stored against the
starboard side hull. On the shelves behind the generators are fuel rags and generator spare parts.
2.13 Engine Room
Access to the engine room is through a watertight door from the generator room. Between the
engine room and the master stateroom are the fuel tanks, which really shields the cabins from
mechanical noises from the engine room and generator rooms. In the engine room are the two
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massive Caterpillar C-15 engines with dual racor fuel filters mounted directly in front. The motor
oil dipstick are both accessed from the center walkway. Spare fuel filters and motor oil are stored
in the generator room.
On the port side hull, there are 3 A/C units (master cabin, galley, and salon), the saltwater pump,
and hot water heater. On the starboard side hull, there are also 3 A/C units (pilot house 1 and 2,
and guest cabin), and both freshwater pumps.
Against the forward bulkhead are the fuel manifolds, fuel sight gauges, fuel cross-over valves,
coolant tanks, and hydraulic steering and engine control reservoirs. When the fuel cross-over
valves are open (normal operating position) All three forward fuel tanks can be filled from one
deck fitting and the center sight-guage is accurate for all three tanks. Besure that both the top
and bottom valves are open during fueling and then closed when fueling is complete. You may
also open the sight-guages for the two other tanks as well to monitor the fuel levels in all three
tanks. Normal operating position of the fuel sight-guages is to have the top and bottom valves
closed when underway.
Fire suppression is automatic with a Fireboy MA-1050 mounted in the maine engine room and
another mountied in the generator engine room. Two Delta-T 24V blowers provide fresh air into
the engine room.
2.14 Amidships Mechanical Compartment
The amidships mechanical compartment is accessed through a floor hatch under the carpet at
the base of the guest quarters stairs. There are two overhead lights with switches. In this
compartment are the two furuno NavNet units, main DC thermal breakers, guest head sump, and
waste discharge pump. Also in this compartment are all the spare parts in the plastic bins. There
are spare electrical parts, plumbing parts, and repair supplies. There are fuses, breakers, bilge
pumps, sea strainer baskets, o-rings, hydraulic seal kits, water pump and A/C pump repair kits,
headhunter valves, wires, wiper parts, hinges, knobs, latches, etc. If you need to repair
something, you might find the part here.
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3.0 Safety Equipment Locations
3.1 Anchors
The primary anchor is an Ultra UA-80 176 lb. anchor mounted on the port side of the bowsprit
with 400 feet of chain.
The secondary anchor is a Delta 110 lb. anchor mounted on the starboard side of the bowsprit
also with 400 feet of chain.
Both anchor chains are marked with yellow and red paint designating the following lengths:
20 feet from anchor Yellow – Red - Yellow
50 feet Yellow
100 feet Red
150 feet Yellow
200 feet Red
250 feet Yellow
300 feet Red
350 feet Yellow
20 feet from bitter end of chain Red – Yellow - Red
400 feet Red
3.2 Bilge Pumps
There are seven Rule 2000/24V 2000GPH bilge pumps with Super Switches, one at each bilge
location.
There are three Rule RM-800/24V 800GPH automatic bilge pumps, located in the Master Cabin,
Fwd Engine Room, and Generator Room bilges.
There is a high output Whale WF-123 Manual Bilge Pump at the Fwd Engine Room Bilge.
Bilge Locations:
1. VIP Cabin – Access through floor hatch at base of VIP berth
2. Guest Head – Access through floor hatch at base of forward stairs
3. Master Cabin - Access through floor hatch in master closet
4. Fwd Engine Room - Access through forward floor hatch in engine room
5. Aft Engine Room - Access through aft floor hatch in engine room
6. Generator Room - Access through forward floor hatch in generator room
7. Lazarette - Access through either cockpit hatch
3.3 High Water Alarm
There is a high water alarm at each bilge location.
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3.4 Dingy Dry Bag
A dingy dry bag is under the helm seat of the inflatable dingy. This bag contains, 1st aid kit
flashlight, air horn, heaving line and a spare plug for the dingy.
3.5 Emergency Exit
The emergency exit from the Master Cabin is overhead on the port side of the berth. Pull down
on the ceiling straps to access the emergency exit.
3.6 EPIRB
The EPIRB is in the document’s cabinet at the left side of the helm.
3.7 Fire Extinguishers
o Engine Room – Fireboy MA 1050
o Generator Room – Fireboy MA-550FE-241 these fire suppression systems are not
powered when boat is off.
o Handheld fire extinguishers are located in each stateroom and in various cabinets. Please
take time to locate all fire extinguishers.
3.8 First Aid Kit
The first aid kit is in the cabinet at the right of the staircase down to the Master Cabin.
3.9 Flares
The flares are in the cabinet at the base of the pilothouse starboard exit door below the dinette.
3.10 Horn
The ship’s air horn is powered up by turning on a breaker on the 24 V panel. The horn is
activated when pressing the chrome push-button at the center of the pilothouse dashboard.
3.11 Navigation Lights
After turning on the Nav. and Anchor Lights breaker, the Navigation lights and anchor light is
operated from the pilothouse dash board.
3.12 Life Preservers / PFD
Inflatable PFDs are hanging in closets in each stateroom. Vest-type III Life preservers are in the
lanai deck bench cabinet and in the flybridge seating area on the port side.
3.13 Life Ring
The life Ring is mounted on the flybridge starboard stern cabinet.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 13
3.14 MARPOL Trash Placard
This placard is located on the port side of the trash compactor
3.15 Pollution Placard
3.16 Smoke / Carbon Monoxide Alarms
o Combined smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are located:
o Overhead at the entrance to the master stateroom
o Behind the door of the VIP stateroom
o On the bulkhead of the guest cabin
3.17 Spotlight
An ACR spotlight control is located on the pilothouse dashboard. The circuit breaker on the 24 V
panel must be turned on
3.18 VHF Radios
Located at both the pilothouse and flybridge dash board. A hand-held VHF radio is located to
the port side of the pilothouse dash board.
3.19 Windshield Washer / Wiper
Located on the port side of the flybridge dash board.
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4.0 Domestic Systems
• Lighting
• Fresh water systems
• Sump pumps
• Watermaker
• Head and marine toilets
• Air Conditioning
• Galley appliances
• Entertainment
• Whole Yacht Audio
• Flybridge Stereo
This section describes operations of systems used to make life onboard more comfortable.
4.1 Lighting
Around the deck are Imtra bi-color deck lights that can be switched between white a blue. The
switch is located by the salon door and flipping the switch quickly on to off and on will toggle the
color.
There are small round safety lights around the yacht with switches are all labeled “safety”. These
lights are located along the floor and illuminate walking areas.
4.2 Fresh Water System
The 400 gallon fresh water tank is located below the master cabin.
The Tank Tender monitor is located on the very left of the
overhead instrument panel. To check the tank level, rotate the
tank selector dial to “5”. Whole holding down the lower left
button (2), pull out the knob (3) and quickly push it back in a couple
of times. The inner ring will measure the number of inches left in
the water tank. A full water tank will read 27 inches.
The fill is located amidships on the port side. The dock side water connection is located on the
port side stern. The water fill key is in the key drawer to the right of the staircase from the salon
up to the galley.
The primary pump is a Headhunter 110V Mach 5. The 24V pump is a Headhunter X-Caliber. Both
are located on the starboard side of the engine. The Mach 5 will provide a slightly higher pressure
and flow rate. Use the 110V Mach 5 when connected to shore power or running then generator
and use the 24V X-Caliber when using the inverter will reduce load on the inverter.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 15
Hot water is supplied by an Allcraft 110V 20 gallon hot water tank located on the shelf against
the hull side of the port engine. Turn on the hot water tank by switching the circuit breaker on
the 110V panel to on.
4.2.1 Sump Pumps
The master head shower and sink, and the guest head shower and sink drain into a sump. This
grey-water is pumped overboat with a sump pump. The sump pump breaker switch on the 12-
volt DC panel must be turned on to use those systems.
4.2.2 Watermaker
The water maker is a Village Marine Reverse Osmosis
(RO) system, located in the starboard cockpit hatch.
It can produce up to 800 gallons of fresh water per
day.
To operate:
1. Turn on the ‘Water Maker’ breaker on the
220V AC panel
2. Turn on the LP pump
3. Turn on the HP Pump.
When the Freshwater tank is full water will flow out of the tank vent on the side of the boat.
Turn off the system by:
4. Turn off the HP pump
5. Turn off the LP pump
6. Flush the system with freshwater by pressing the FLUSH button
4.3 Head Systems
The heads are equipped with top of the line Headhunter Royal Flush marine toilets that use very
little water per flush and does not have moving parts. These use a high pressure jet of fresh
water to flush the toilet. The “head” circuit breaker and one of the fresh water pumps must be
on for the heads to flush. The flush switch is located on the left side of the head when facing the
unit.
Important: The only stuff that goes into the toilet is whatever you have already eaten, and
some toilet paper. Do not put baby wipes, paper towels, or feminine products into the toilet,
they will clog the toilet.
In case of a clogged toilet, get the plunger stored in the port side bridge bench hatch (forward
of the pilot house). DO NOT use a plunger as you normally would, instead put the plunger into
the bowl, and hold it down firmly against the bowl to create a seal around the plunger. Push the
switch to flush the head while holding down the plunger. The high-pressure jet of water will
force the clog through to the holding tank.
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4.3.1 Holding Tank Monitor
The Tank Sentry holding tank monitor is located on the left
side of the overhead instrument panel. Turn on the unit to
monitor the holding tank level. It will take 30 seconds for
the unit to complete the initialization process. The unit will
alarm if the holding tank is at 90%.
The holding tank discharge pump is a Headhunter Mako1
pump located in the Amidships Compartment. To pump out
the holding tank, turn the pump switch on the Tank Sentry
monitor to AUTO. It will pump out the holding tank until it
is at 10%. To pump the last 10%, hold the switch in the
MANUAL position until it is empty.
4.4 Air Conditioning
La Vida is equipped with ‘Marine Air’ air conditioning
(A/C) and heating system with a total of 108,000 BTU of
cooling and reverse cycle heating with the 6 independent
AC units on board. System outlets are located
throughout the boat controlled by thermostats in each
stateroom, pilothouse, and salon. Circuit breaker
switches are in the AC Breaker Panel. To operate the A/C
ion, you must have either shore power connected or a
generator running, with both the “A/C Pump” and at
least one “A/C Zone” circuit breakers turned on as required. Be
careful if using a shore power connection not to overload it. The
air conditioners’ “Mode” setting allows them to heat or cool the
vessel, and the thermostats will cycle them on as needed. The air
conditioning control panel has symbols; the red dot/white dot
button turns the area on or off. The button with the fan blade symbol regulates fan speed. The
red and green thermometers control the temperature. Your settings are shown in the readout,
and the LED’s show the system’s status.
1-Power, 2-Manual fan speed, 3, 6, & 8-LED indicator, 4 and 5-Temperature control, 7-Temperature set point.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 17
4.5 Galley and Appliances
The galley is equipped with coffee maker, microwave, food processor, blender, juicer and other
home-kitchen appliances.
4.5.1 Cooktop
The cooktop is a Miele electric glass top range which works when plugged into shore power or
running on one of the generators.
4.5.2 Oven
The GE electric oven is also powered with shore power or generator.
4.5.3 Barbeque
The BBQ is a ElectriChef 220V 24” Marine Grill. Turn on the timer, set the temperature,
preheat. This is also powered with shore power or generator.
4.5.4 Washer & Dryer
The washer is a Whirlpool LHW0050PQ4 front load washer. It is located under the forward berth
in the guest cabin. The dryer is a Whirlpool WED7500VW front load dryer. It is located under the
aft berth in the guest cabin.
4.5.5 Refrigerators
La Vida has three refrigerators, a wine cooler, freezer, and ice maker. These appliances operate
with AC power provided by shore power or generator.
o The galley fridge is a GE PS123MGWA BV side by side refrigerator/freezer,
o The wine cooler in the salon is a Marvel 6SWCE-BD-LL,
o The pilothouse fridge is an Isotherm 1006502 located on the forward side of the galley
bar,
o Fly bridge refrigerator is located on the starboard side of the flybridge area,
o An ice maker on port side of the lanai deck, and
o A built-in freezer is located on the starboard side of the lanai deck.
4.6 A/V Entertainment System
La Vida is outfitted with a state of the art music and movie entertainment system. There is a 4K
TV with a bluray player with a speaker system in the salon, and a whole yacht audio system with
speakers in the pilothouse, fly bridge, cockpit, master stateroom, and guest stateroom.
Everything is controlled from the A/V cabinet in the salon and powered from the ‘TV Stereo’
breaker switch on the 120V AC panel.
4.6.1 Salon TV
The Salon TV is an LG 4K TV in the starboard side cabinet. It can be raised and lowered via the
three position toggle switch. Clear items off the top of the TV cabinet. Push up on the switch until
the TV comes to a stop and return the switch to the middle position. To lower the TV, push down
18| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
on the switch until the TV lowers to a full stop and return the switch to the middle position. HDMI
Input 1 will display the source selected by the Marantz NR-1609 Receiver.
4.6.2 Salon Audio
The salon in ceiling speakers are the MAIN Zone speakers powered by the Marantz NR-1609
Receiver. To turn on the audio in the salon, turn on the Marantz Receiver and select the MAIN
Zone source using the left rotary knob. The video from the source selected will be output to the
TV HDMI 1. The subwoofer is under the bench next to the wine fridge and plugged into the same
circuit as the wine fridge. If you are not getting any base from the subwoofer, make sure the
‘Salon Wine Cooler’ breaker switch is turned at the 120V AC panel is turned ON.
4.6.3 Bluray
The bluray player is a Denon DN-500BD. To play a Bluray or DVD, turn on the TV and set the TV
source to HDMI Input 1. Turn on the Marantz Receiver and set the source to ‘Bluray’ using the
left rotary knob. Turn on and insert a bluray disc into the Denon bluray player.
4.6.4 Bluetooth Streaming
You can also connect and stream music and audio to the Marantz Receiver via Bluetooth. To pair
your Bluetooth device, use the Marantz remote and hold down the ‘Bluetooth’ button (about 3-
5 seconds) until the front of the receiver displays ‘Paring…’ Then on your Bluetooth device, select
the Marantz receiver to pair. Once paired, the Bluetooth device should be selected as the source.
If not, use the left rotary knob to select your device as the source or select ‘HEOS MUSIC’.
4.6.5 Whole Yacht Audio
The Marantz receiver also controls the audio source to the whole yacht audio system. The Salon
speakers are the MAIN Zone and are powered by the Marantz receiver, and the rest of the
speakers are in ZONE2 and powered by the Niles Amplifier. To get sound on all other speakers,
turn on the Niles amplifier by pressing the power button in the middle of the unit. To select the
source, turn on Zone 2 by pressing ‘ZONE2 ON/OFF’ button on the receiver. Then to select the
source, press the ‘ZONE2 SOURCE’ button until the desired source is selected. If you wish to play
from your Bluetooth device, select ‘HEOS MUSIC’. You can also play AM/FM radio stations by
selecting ‘TUNER’.
The speakers in the Master Cabin, VIP Cabin, Pilothouse, Flybridge, and Aft Deck all have their
own volume controls. They are white rotary knobs in each room. The Aft Deck volume control
is inside the salon to the right of the A/V system. Even though each of the rooms have their own
volume control, the Marantz ZONE2 volume control adjusts the baseline volume. Please ensure
that the Marantz ZONE2 volume is set to max if you’re not getting enough volume in the room
speakers.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 19
4.6.6 Flybridge Stereo
The flybridge speakers are powered by their own amplifier. To turn on the flybridge speakers,
turn the ‘FB Stereo’ breaker switch on the 12-volt DC Panel to ON. The source still comes from
the ZONE2 source from the Marantz Receiver.
5.0 Electrical Systems
5.1 110-volt and 220-volt AC Panel
The AC panel lets you configure the source of power for
each of the four quadrants of systems in the panel. There
is the 110 System 1 on top left and System 2 on top right,
and 220 System 1 on bottom left and System 2 on bottom
right. Each has a rotary dial that lets you select the source
from Shore 1, Shore 2, Gen 1 and Gen 2. The 110 System
1 has an additional inverter source. Typically, if you are
connected to shore power or running one generator, all
sources will be set to the same power source. If not, set
the 110 System 1 to Inverter.
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5.1.1 Generators
There are two generators on La Vida in the generator
room. To port is a Northern Lights 16kW. To starboard
is a Northern Lights 20kW. Both are well sound insulated
and are very quiet to not be noticeable from the cabins.
For most cruising needs, you should only need to run one
generator or just the inverter. If you are running a heavy
load, you will want to start the second generator if the
total load is > 70% of the generator. You can estimate
the load in kW with the following formula:
kW load=(110V Amps + 2x the 220V Amps) / 10
For example: If the 110V system is using 50 Amps, and
the 220V system is using 25 Amps, you are using ( 50 + (2
x 25) ) /10 = 10kW, which is fine on either generator.
5.1.2 Shorepower
The aft shorepower connectors are two Glendinning Cable Masters to port of the cockpit steps.
The forward shorepower connectors are on the starboard side of the bridge. The shorepower
panel lets you set shorepower System 1 and System 2 to be the forward or aft connectors
depending on which one is in use. The Cablemaster breaker should be on and the switch to deploy
and retrieve the shore cable is in the side, port cabinet in the aft cockpit.
5.1.3 Inverter
The inverter is a Victron Multiplus 24/3000/70 3kw Inverter / 70Amp Charger located behind the
stairs down to the guest cabins. The control panel, is a touch screen on the right end of pilot
house overhead instrument panel.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 21
The panel shows the current flow between
shorepower/generator, the inverter, batteries,
and loads. It also shows the house battery state of
charge. Please do not run the house battery below
50% DoD (Depth of Discharge) which will shorten
battery lifespan. The inverter can power the 110
panel System 1. Please do not have over 25 Amps
of devices on at the same time if power to the 110
System 1 is supplied by the inverter.
5.1.4 Batteries
There are five battery banks, monitored by two
battery monitors on the pilot house overhead
instrument panel.
The house battery is a 24V 660AH bank
consisting of 12x Crown 6CRV220 AGM
batteries located under the master cabin
closet hatch. The left battery monitor display
with the switch in the center position shows
the voltage of the house battery.
Each of the two main engines have a 24V
battery bank for starting the engines, These
banks consisting of 2 Northstar AGM 8D 12V
batteries located on the hull side of each
engine. The right battery monitor (above,
right) displays the state of charge of these batteries. The switch in the left position monitors the
port engine start battery bank, the right position monitors the starboard engine start battery
bank, and nothing in the center position.
The two generators each have a single Northstar AGM 8D 12V battery located on the hull side
shelf of each generator. The left battery monitor display also monitors the generator batteries.
The switch in the left position monitors port generator battery and the right position monitors
the starboard generator battery.
5.1.5 Charging the Batteries
The engine battery charger is a ChargeMaster Plus 24/40-3 CZone in the generator room. It
charges the 24V engine start batteries and the 12V generator batteries. The breaker switch is on
the AC panel 110 System 2 labeled ‘Engine Charger’. Leave this on to keep the engine and
generator start batteries charged. There is a charging relay above the starboard generator, which
Generator starting battery banks monitor is on the left and the main engines starting battery banks monitor is on the right..
22| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
allows the charger or, either generator to charge both generator batteries. Leave the switch for
the relay on.
The Victron inverter is also a charger and it charges the house batteries. The switch is on the AC
panel 110 System 2 labeled ‘Inverter Charger’. Leave this on to keep the house batteries charged.
The secondary battery charger is a second Victron inverter. The switch is on the AC panel 110
System 2 labeled ‘Battery Charger’. Turn this on if needed to increase the house battery charging
speed.
The house battery is also charged when the starboard engine is running. A 24V 140Amp
alternator supplies power to the ships systems and charges the house battery.
6.0 Engines
La Vida is powered with two Caterpillar C15 ACERT 15.2 liter twin turbo diesel engines rated at
853 HP each at 2300 RPM. Peak torque is 2421 ft-lb at 1600 RPM.
Do not run the engines for long periods of time with no load and transmissions in neutral. These
engines require a regular daily check. Please perform this check each morning (see engine
checklist).
Normal engine coolant operating temperature will be 180°F. If the coolant temperature rises
above 210°F, reduce engine load. The engine temperature should drop quickly, if not, stop the
engine and determine cause before resuming operation; check the sea strainer for debris.
Normal engine oil pressure is between 40 psi and 80 psi at normal operating RPM of 1200 to
1600.
6.1 Daily Engine Checks
Before getting underway, we advise that you enter the engine room look around at all the
equipment. The engine room is entered through the hatch in the cockpit; the stairway hatch
opens there are steps down into the generator room, and then enter the engine room through
a door. Light switches for generator room are to the right above the starboard generator.
Likewise, the light switches for the enginer room or to the starboard of the door and near the
overhead. The main objective of the engine room check is to monitor the general condition of
onboard equipment. While you are in the engine room, look around and ask yourself, “does
everything look right?” To help with this, complete follow the checklist:
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 23
Engine room Checklist
Seawater strainers Main engines and generator sea strainers clear of excessive debris
Coolant level Between the Cold and Hot level; main engines
Oil drips Check the oil absorption pads under main engines for significant
oil leaks
Fuel filters Fuel is clear amber without significant sediment and water is
absent
Engine oil Between the low and high marks
6.1.1 Check the Sea Strainers
The engine strainers are in the forward end of each engine. To check a strainer, shine a flashlight
through it. While some fuzziness from trapped marine growth is normal, you should see the light
clearly on the other side. If moderately obscured, you should
clean the strainer.
To Clean the seawater strainer:
1. Close the thru hull valve by turning the handle perpendicular to valve,
2. Open the top of the strainer by hand, they should be hand-tight.
3. Pull out the basket and dump the debris into the garbage. Replace basket into strainer,
4. Screw the top back into position and tighten to snub, do not overtighten,
5. Open the valve at the bottom of the seawater strainer.
6. Start up the engine and check for water flow through the exhaust port at the transom.
7. Check for leaks at the seawater strainer. 8. Monitor engine temperature
Seawater strainers are forward of each main engine.
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6.1.2 Check the Coolant Level
The coolant expansion tanks are located on the forward
bulkhead in front of each engine. If coolant is needed,
determine if there are any signs of a coolant leak under the
engine. Coolant should be needed rarely, If it is, find out
why. If there is, do not run the engine. If there is no leak, add
coolant to the tank from the pre-mixed coolant supplied on
the boat.
Do not open the cap on the coolant reservoir unless the
engines are cold. If the coolant is hot it will be forcibly
ejected from the cap potentially scalding you with hot liquid.
6.1.3 Oil drips
Under each main engine is an oil pan that is lined with oil absorption pads. Visually check these
for significant oil drips. There will be small drips here and there, monitor these. If an oil drip
becomes significant such as a 2 or 3-inch diameter spot, try to locate the source and then call
the service shop.
6.1.4 Fuel Filters
The primary fuel filters are inboard of each engine along the center walkway. These filters
collect sediment and separate any water that may be in the fuel. Place a flashlight to the side of
the bowl at the bottom of the fuel filter housing and you should see clean amber diesel fuel
with a little sediment. The diesel fuel may have a red die added to it so, variation of color is OK.
If you see a clear colorless fluid, it is water - Call the Service shop right away. If there seems to
be excessive sediment and the amber diesel fuel is cloudy, keep this in mind, you may need to
switch to the backup fuel filter if the engines are not pulling enough fuel.
Coolant expansion tank is mounted on the bulkhead forward of each engine.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 25
These Racor brand fuel filters are set up in pairs; one
of the filters is active with fuel flowing through the
filter to the engine. The second filter is the backup
filter and ready to be used when the first filter is
clogged. Between the two filter units is a valve with a
handle that has a point at one end. This points toward
the filter being used. If the RPM of one of the engines
begins decrease, you will need to switch to the backup
fuel filter.
To switch fuel filters:
1. Slow the engines down to idle and shift the engines out of gear,
2. Have a crewmember take watch as you enter the engine room,
3. Turn the valve handle at the front of the Racor filter so that it points toward the backup filter.
4. Check the fuel filter of the other engine, if there is excessive sediment, switch that filter as well.
5. Let the engine idle for a minute before increasing the throttle to cruising speed
Between the two filters is a vacuum gage that indicates the pressure (vacuum) of fuel being
pulled through the filter. If the needle is in the red zone, it is time to switch to the backup fuel
filter.
6.1.5 Engine Oil
The oil level should be between the two marks on the dipstick. The dipsticks are located in the
middle of the engines along the center walkway. Use a paper towel from the roll in the generator
room, wipe the stick, reinsert and back out to take the reading.
Add only enough oil to bring it up to the ‘add’ mark, using the Chevron Delco oil provided in the
generator room. If you need more oil, please buy it, and we will reimburse you.
6.1.6 Visually Inspect the Engine Room
Whenever you’re in the engine room, ask “Does everything look right?” Look at the pads under
the engines and transmissions. While some drips are normal, there shouldn’t ever be substantial
accumulations of any fluids.
6.1.7 Check the Transmission Oil Level
Once every two weeks, or more often if a transmission shifts erratically, check the transmission
oil level with the dipstick when the engine is running and in neutral gear. It is unlikely that any
oil will need to be added. Be sure to check under the transmission for leaks. Low transmission
oil is a serious matter.
The valve handle has a pointed end that points to the filter that is active. To switch, turn the valve to point to the backup filter.
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With the engine at idle and in neutral, remove the transmission dipstick. Wipe it with a towel,
reinsert, and remove to take a reading. If the level is below the add mark, stop the engine, add
a pint of transmission fluid through the plug on top of the transmission case. Start the engine
and measure again. Do not overfill, doing so could cause the seals to blow.
6.2 Engine Controls
The boat is fitted with Hynautic controls with five stations. Controls at each of the five stations
operate together; moving controls at one station moves them all. With five stations, the controls
are a little stiff to operate. Be aware it will take a little oomph to operate the shift and throttle
controls. The two black knob controls are the shift controls, and the two red knob controls are
the throttle controls.
The shift controls should be pointed straight up to be in neutral. There is a neutral detent so you
know when you have shifted into neutral from forward or reverse. Push forward all the way to
shift into forward, and pull back all the way to shift into reverse. It takes two seconds for the
shift to engage. Plan accordingly when maneuvering close quarters.
The throttle control should be pulled back all the way to be in idle. Pushing forward increases
the throttle. Do not shift the engine into gear if the throttle is not in idle position.
6.2.1 Station Transfer
Since the Hynautic system moves all controls together, there is no transfer of station needed. All
stations will have controls in the exact same position.
6.2.2 Synchronizing Engine RPM
The boat allows synchronized RPM from both engines operating from one throttle control. To
do so, switch the ‘SYNC’ lever from the middle to starboard position. Now the starboard throttle
control controls the RPM for both engines. Push the port throttle all the way forward so everyone
is aware that the boat is controlled by the starboard throttle.
To go back to independent throttle control, pull the port throttle back to match the starboard
throttle and switch the ‘SYNC’ toggle switch back to the middle (off) position.
When manuevering in close quarters, you may trun on the SLOW VESSEL switch that lowers the
engine RPMs and the boat will have a little less power and speed at idle. When you are done
with manuevering be sure to turn the SLOW VESSEL toggles to the down position (off).
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 27
Engine control and display monitors. Before starting the engines, 1: SLOW VESSEL toggle switches should be in the down position (off); 2: SYNCH toggle should be in the center position (off) and P/H position.
Important: The ‘SYNC’ toggle switch must be in the center position when operating at low
speed; otherwise one of the engime may stop running.
6.2.3 Engine Start-Up
After you have completed the daily engine room check, you may start up the engines:
o Engine control levers in neutral.
o SYNCH toggle switch in middle position (off) and in P/H position.
o LOW SPEED toggle switch down position (off).
o ENG. DISPLAY and ENG. POWER breakers are ‘ON’ under each engine monitor.
o Turn both keys to the ‘ON’ position and ensure that the engine monitors are reading
engine status.
o Turn one key to start the engine and release back to ‘ON’ position.
o Repeat for the other engine.
6.2.4 Shaft Seals
The two shafts are equipped with packless, self-sealing shaft seals. These multi-seal propeller
shaft seals are dripless, so there is no leaking or spraying of seawater into the bilge. They are
cooled and lubricated by sea water from the main engines.
Note: If an engine fails and you need to operate the boat on one engine, the shaft of the failed
engine must be manually locked or secured to prevent rotation since the shaft seals will not be
getting any cooling water.
6.2.5 Main Engine Operating Parameters
The Caterpillar C15 ACERT engines are rated at 853 HP at their maximum RPM of 2300. Please
keep them at 1400 RPM or less to save fuel. The economical cruising speed is 1100 RPM, which
will push La Vida along at 9-10kts with a fuel burn of approximately 12 gph. It is also very
28| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
important to slow the engines gradually and then idle them for 5-10 minutes before shutdown
to cool the bearings, especially those of the turbocharger which are very hot at high speeds. This
is easily accomplished as you enter harbors or set up anchor.
Engine Operating Parameters
RPM Fuel Burn
(g/h)
Speed
(knots)
Efficiency
(nm/g)
1,000 11.51 8.4 0.7
1,200 15.51 9.8 0.6
1,400 25.01 11.2 0.4
1,600 35.81 12.2 0.3
1,800 36.82
2,000 49.62
1. Measured values 2. Caterpillar engine specifical data sheet
Note: Cooling seawater is ejected under the hull which eliminates sound, and soot on the hull.
Consequently, you will not be able to see seawater flow through the exhaust ports.
6.3 Fuel System
The boat has four diesel fuel tanks with a total capacity of 1,850 gallons. Three forward tanks are
located between the engine room and the master stateroom. The fourth tank is located aft, in
the lazarette, which accessible from either the starboard or port deck hatches. Each tank has its
own fill and vent line, all located amidships on both sides. Two deck fill caps are located mid-ship
on the starboard side steps and one deck fill cap is located mid-ship on the port side deck steps.
The lazarette tank is normally left empty; the fill cap is located on the deck of the lanai. Each
deck fill is equipped with a screw cap engraved ‘DIESEL’. At the engine room forward bulkhead
are the three tank’s sight gauges. The fuel manifold is located in the lower middle of the
bulkhead, and there are cross-over valves at the bottom of the three engine room tanks to allow
fuel to flow level between them. This means you can fill all three tanks through one deck fill if
the cross-over valves are open. The cross-over valves are normally left open to allow easy fuel
fill and balance between the tanks.
6.3.1 Fuel Management
Consider the following when reviewing and planning fuel needs:
• Estimate high on fuel consumption
• Both the 20kW and 16kW generators use 1.7 GPH at full load
• Plan on a 20% reserve, a minimum of 350 gallons
6.3.2 Checking the Fuel Level
Fueling is a two-person task with one person in the engine room monitoring the sight gauges:
Each tank has a sight gauge. Each sight gauge has a shut-off valve at the top and bottom. Open
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 29
both the top and bottom sight gauge valves and allow for the level to equalize. After fueling or
checking fuel levels, close the sight gauge valves. The engine room sight gauges have markings
in 50 gallon increments along the sight gauges.
6.3.3 Filling the Fuel Tanks
The fuel tank fills are located amidships, two deck fill caps are located mid-ship on the starboard
side steps and one deck fill cap is located mid-ship on the port side deck steps. If the cross-over
valves are open, all forward tanks may be filled from a single location.
Before You Start to Fuel
• Make sure the engines and generators are shut down and all ignition materials have been
extinguished.
• Make sure fire extinguishers, first aid kit, and clean-up materials are readily available.
• Grab and absorbent pad and make a hole in the middle of it for the fuel pump head to go
through and place it over the deck fill.
Fueling Procedure
• Open the cross-over valves and all three tank’s sight gauge valves.
• Have someone in the engine room to monitor the sight gauge during the fueling process.
You can communicate with your cell phones or hand-held VHF radios.
• Make sure the overflow vent is visible and unobstructed.
• Fuel spills are the responsibility of the person operating the fueling hose. Fueling can
be messy. Have an absorbent pad from the engine room at the ready.
• Open the DIESEL cap with the spanner wrench/key located in the document drawer at the
helm.
• Insert the nozzle into the fill valve, and start the flow.
• As the tank fills, listen for sputters and watch the fuel vent. It will gurgle before the tank
is full. Your goal is to stop pumping BEFORE fuel spurts out of the vent.
• The person monitoring the sight gauges should communicate the remaining level in
inches as the tanks fill.
• Do not overfill the tanks. Stop when the fuel level reaches the top on the center tank
sight tube.
When fueling is completed, put the hose back on the dock, screw the fill cap back in place, and
return the key to the drawer marked “keys” in the main salon (by the staircase to the helm).
30| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
7.0 Electronic Aids to Navigation
• VHF radio
• Autopilot and Ruder Angle Indicator
• Chart plotter
• Radar
• Sounder
• Automatic Identification System (AIS)
La Vida is equipped with a variety of electronic equipment to aid with navigation and cruising
safety. Each device has a dedicated, or shared circuit on a 12-volt DC panel. Breaker switchs for
the electronics are on the right-hand side of the panel and must be in the ‘ON’ position. Some
of the labels are in a small font, for example the Furuno Sounder breaker switch is near the
bottom of the panel and is easily overlooked. This breaker must be on for depth data to be
displayed on the chartplotter.
7.1 VHF radio
La Vida has Icom M604 VHF radios at the pilot house
helm station with remote microphone mounted to the
right of the helm below the countertop. In the flybridge,
an Icom M504 VHF radio is mounted at the helm station.
7.2 Autopilot and rudder indicator
La Vida has a Simrad AP 28 autopilot with a rudder
angle indicator bar at the bottom of the display screen.
This autopilot will hold a compass course when in
‘AUTO’ mode. This unit is not interfaced with the chart
plotter and therefore will not maintain the boat on the
plotted course. You will need to adjust the autopilot to
account for being set by wind and currents. The display
on the autopilot indicates which mode the pilot is in:
A – autopilot mode holds the boat on a compass course
S – Standby mode; the helms person has manual control of the helm
X - Pilot station does not have control; remote station has control of helm.
The numerical display is the compass course that the boat is on.
At the bottom of the display, the angle of the rudder is indicated, for example, in photo above,
the rudder is 2° to the starboard.
To take control of the autopilot at the flybridge or at the pilothouse, press the AUTO or STBY
key.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 31
Basic operation of the autopilot is controlled by the buttons and knob on the right side of the
pilot display.
PWR
Press once to power on
Press and hold for power off (3 secnds)
Press for backlighting adjustment
AUTO Engages autopilot to maintain current compass course
STBY Disenges autopilot
Rotory knob Adjusts course
<- -> keys
at knob Adjusts course by 1° for each press or 10° if held.
TURN
Press once to enter a turn selection menu (see manual)
Press twice for manual steering to dodge an object, press once
more to resume your compass course.
Knob Turn knob to adjust course, each click is one degree
You will primarily be using the STBY and AUTO buttons to enter autopilot mode or manual
steering mode. If you need to dodge an object such as a log or floating debris, push STBY and
hand steer to avoid the object then return to your compass course and push the AUTO button.
To adjust your course as needed use the arrow keys or turn the knob.
7.3 Chartplotter and Radar
La Vida has a Furuno NavNet 3D navigation system network with 2 Mult-Function Displays
(MFDs) in the pilot house and one MFD on the flybridge. With the two MFD, you can configure
multiple screen views so that you can display the chartplotter, radar, and sounder at the same
time. Controls for the system are on a panel on the dashboard. The radar is integrated in the
Furuno NavNet system and can be viewed on the MFD.
Furuno training videos are available at:
https://www.furunousa.com/en/get_support/learning_center/videos/navnet_3d_training_videos
And, on YouTube:
Part 1. Keyboard layout: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRyDPsy9WlY
Part 2. Introduction to chartplotter basics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjKMJhOL6N4
Part 3. Creating points and routes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPN-kOC8v2U
Note: Electronic aids to navigation are tools to assist you with navigating through the islands
and reefs in our cruising area. You are, however, responsible to always know your location, and
to operate in a safe manner. Rule 5 of the Navigation Rules of the Road state:
32| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
“Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing as well as
by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as
to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.” (COLREGS Rule #5).
We recommend that as you are learning to use the chart plotter, a second crew member should
be with you to keep watch as you are cruising. It is quite easy to become distracted with the
navigation electronics.
7.4 Sounder
The Furuno sounder is interfaced with the chartplotter. The Furuno Sounder breaker switch must
be turned on. Depth will be displayed on the MFD screen and a plot of depth can be selected in
the display menu.
7.5 Automated Identification System
La Vida is equipped with Class B AIS. This system sends and receives position and vessel
information with other boats. The positions of the nearby boats are displayed on the chart
plotter. Additional information of the other vessels can be displayed by selecting the target on
the screen. This tool is useful for avoidance of collision and identifying other vessels so that you
can call them on the VHF radio.
8.0 Maneuvering
• Docking and Undocking
• Maneuvering in the Harbor
‘Slow is Pro’. Maneuver the boat using the engines at idle speed and in neutral much of the time.
Rudders should always be in center position; use the bow and stern thrusters to steer the boat.
The thrusters are hydraulic and be operated for extended burts for maneuvering. You may turn
the SLOW VESSEL toggle switches up to the on position when maneuvering in close quarters. This
will lower the engine RPMs, power and speed of the boat. Be sure switch the SLOW VESSEL toggle
off when you are done.
8.1 Docking & Undocking
Have the fenders out and lines prepped beforehand. The stern line should be passed out from
the stern cleat through the hawspipe and placed on the bulwark. The spring line should also be
passed through the midship hawspipe with the end out a foot or so and reachable from the
dockside. The bowline should be passed from the cleat to outside the stanchions and draped so
it can be reached from the dock. Never put a line from the cleat over the handrails as the boat’s
weight will bend or break the rail if it pulls against the line.
Using the wing stations on the dock side will give you full visibility of the entire length of the boat
and the dock. Usually, it is easier to dock bow in. Have your mate at the swim platform, ready
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 33
the step off the secure the stern line. Use the stern thruster to ease the stern in against the dock
so the mate can step onto the dock. Secure the stern line, and then use the thrusters as needed
to allow the mate to secure the bow and spring lines so the boat rests against the stern and
midships fenders.
8.2 Maneuvering in a Harbor
On a twin screw vessel with both bow and stern thrusters, it will be easiest if you center the
rudders and steer with the engines and thrusters. The large props make the boat respond
exceedingly well. Take your time and make small adjustmentsto the momentum of the boat by
putting the engine in gear and out when you feel it engage. Take control of the thrusters by
pressing the green button on the thruster control unit. Use the thrusters to maneuver the boat
in tight spots. The thrusters are hydraulic so don’t worry about overheating the thruster. They
are variable speed proportional to the angle of the joystick, so you can slowly ease the boat
against or away from the dock.
Captain Joseph D. Coons, an associate of ours prepared an instructional booklet titled
“Maneuvering Inboard-Engine Power Boats” which, is available from our charter office and on
our website:
https://6297347.fs1.hubspotusercontent-
na1.net/hubfs/6297347/Files%20for%20Public%20Sharing%20Online/Maneuvering%20Inboard-
Engine%20Power%20Boats.pdf
9.0 Anchoring
• Setting the Anchor
• Hauling the Anchor
• Stern tie
• Rafting
Preparing for anchoring is an important step so that I can be accomplished safely for you and the
boat. Before attempting to anchor, select an anchorage with a soft bottom such as mud, sand,
or gravel if possible. Look at the charts and cruising guides for tips on good locations. Then,
choose the spot in the anchorage where you have room to swing on anchor without disturbing
other boats. Remember, responsibility for leaving room goes to each successive boat that
arrives. Here, in the Northwest, because of the deep waters, we anchor a little differently than
in the Gulf of Mexico or Caribbean.
First, we use anchor chain scopes of only 4-to-1 or 5-to-1. For example, in water that is 40’ deep
at high tide in the typical anchorage, we might use 200’ of chain unless the weather was to be
gale force or greater winds. This allows for the 10’ or so bow pulpit above the water for a total
of 50’ above the bottom at high tide.
34| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
Second, because of the small bays and steep bottoms, we sometimes rig a shoreline from the
stern of the boat to shore. The best example of this would be Todd Inlet and Buchart Gardens.
This bay can accommodate 8 – 10 boats, yet it is only about 150’ wide and 200’ long. Boats attach
their bows to the mooring buoys, or in a few cases, anchor, and their sterns are secured to rings
provided in the steep cliffs overlooking the bay. Boats are perhaps 15-20’ apart, side to side.
Third, in crowded harbors we will often raft the boats toget side by side in busy marinas, although
this isn’t very common.
Note: The windlass breaker switches are to the
right of the helm near to the floor, below the
generator panel.
The primary anchor is the 176-pound Ultra
anchor on the port side. Use the Port Windlass
for setting and retrieving the anchor
9.1 Setting the Anchor
Anchoring safely requires two persons, one at the helm maneuvering the boat, and one on the
bow operating the anchor. The person at the helm puts the bow of the boat over the spot where
the anchor is to be placed after checking the depth sounder. The person at the bow uses the
windlass foot switches to lower the anchor slowly onto the bottom. The person at the bow
signals the helmsman to maneuver the boat as needed to lay out chain and set the anchor.
When the anchor reaches the bottom, signal the helmsman to back away by into reverse for 2
seconds and then back to neutral. Resume lowering the anchor while backing away to lay out
chain until the desired amount of chain is out. Keep the boat backing away with engaging reverse
and then neutral. When you have reached the desired scope stop paying out chain. Engage
reverse as before until the chain starts to pulls up straight off the bow towards the anchor. A
straight steady chain indicates a set anchor.
NEVER pull on the chain for more than 3 seconds or in excess of one knot, and NEVER at any
engine RPM more than idle. Doing so forcefully will bend the anchor or damage the mooring
gear.
If when checking the set, the chain rumbles and clunks, and seems to release in bursts, it means
you are anchoring on a rocky bottom and the anchor is not holding. Be patient. It may not set
on first try, and you ma have to repeat the process to get a good set.
Attach the bridle, stowed in the starboard bridge bench seat locker, secure the chain in front of
the anchor roller with the chain hook and lower the chain until the lines to the bow cleats are
taut, and creating a slack loop in the anchor chain. The anchor bridle accomplishes three goals:
1. It takes the strain of the anchor off the windlass, pulpit, and pulpit pulley and directs it to
the bow cleats which are more suited to hold it;
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 35
2. It reduces substantially the “chain noise” transmitted to the occupants of the forward
cabin;
3. It allows the anchor rode to have a lower angle relative to the sea bottom, thus increasing
the anchor’s holding power
9.2 Retrieving the Anchor
1. The engines should always be at idle when you are retrieving the anchor.
2. Ensure that the Maxwell Windlass breakers are on.
3. Turn on the saltwater washdown pump. The hose is in a bucket in the bridge fender
locker.
4. Connect the hose to the port spigot to rinse the chain and anchor.
5. Press the up-foot button to bring up the anchor chain and remove the bridle.
6. Continue to press the up-foot button to bring up the anchor chain, stopping as needed
to clean the chain.
7. Wash the chain with plenty of sea water before it comes over the roller to keep the
mud off the boat. Try to create a waterfall of water down the chain to remove all mud
and debris. Do not stow a muddy or debris filled chain.
8. As the chain tightens and starts to bog down the windlass, wait until the boat catches
up, then continue. Don’t drag the boat by the anchor chain through the water.
9. The anchor chain tends to build up (castle) in the anchor locker when being
retrieved. We have found that its important to have a crew member help distribute
the chain as it pools in the locker in order to allow all of it to be retrieved without
clogging the hawes pipe.
10. when the anchor is clear of the water, make sure it is clear of mud. A boat brush and
hose may be needed.
11. Be careful in the last couple of feet to make sure the anchor is facing the proper
direction.
12. Attach the anchor safety line and lower the chain stopper.
13. Release the tension on the chain slightly to take the strain off the windlass.
9.3 Shore Tie or Stern Tie
In many anchorages, especially in the Gulf Islands of British Columbia there are rings or chains
secured to the rocky shoreline that are used to tie the stern of the boat toward the shore. Stern
tying will keep the boat in position and will eliminate swinging while at anchor. More boats can
occupy an anchorage when they are tied to the shore. You can also pass your stern line around
a sturdy tree and then return it to the boat. Have your tender launched and tied alongside of
the boat before you anchor so that it will be ready to take the stern line to shore.
To stern tie:
36| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
1. Select your spot to drop your anchor so that you will have adequate scope when you are stern tied.
2. Anchor as described above and back toward your selected stern tie location. 3. When the anchor is set, have two crew members take the end of the stern tie line to the
shore and pass it through the ring, chain, or around a tree and return with the end back to the boat.
4. The person at the helm should keep the boat in position as the tender crew is working with the stern tie line.
5. When the stern tie line is secured, pull the slack out of the line, and adjust the anchor chain as needed.
6. When the boat is in the intended position, set the anchor bridle as described above.
Note: Always take the tide into
consideration; at low tide, be
sure there is enough depth
under the keel to prevent
grounding. At high tide, be sure
there is adequate scope in the
anchor chain.
9.4 Rafting
We often tie our boats up alongside each other on our flotilla trips or in crowded harbors. This
is an effective way to reduce our footprint in a cozy cove. The flotilla Captain will first get the
lead boat secure in position with an anchor and stern tie and then will call each boat into the
raft and coach them as they approach the raft. When all the boats are rafted up, the lead-boat
crew will then use our tender to set the anchors and assist with shore-tie lines of the two boats
on the ends of the raft. When complete, the raft will be very secure with three anchors out and
three stern tie lines.
To raft to another boat, you will need:
1. Fenders set alongside the boat in a position to protect the boat from your neighbor 2. One bow line ready to tie up with your neighbor 3. One stern line leading out through the transom hawsepipe 4. Two long spring lines:
a. one from midship leading aft b. one from stern leading forward
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 37
Nine-boat raft in Melanie Cove, Desolation Sound. Three anchors and three stern ties secure the boats in position.
9.5 Anchor and Ground Tackle
9.5.1 Primary Anchor
The primary anchor is an Ultra UA-80 176 lb. anchor mounted on the port side of the bowsprit
with 400 feet of chain.
9.5.2 Secondary Anchor
The secondary anchor is a Delta 110 lb. anchor mounted on the starboard side of the bowsprit
with 400 feet of chain
9.5.3 Anchor Chain Markings
Both anchor chains are marked with yellow and red paint designating the following lengths:
20 feet from anchor Yellow – Red - Yellow
50 feet Yellow
100 feet Red
150 feet Yellow
200 feet Red
250 feet Yellow
300 feet Red
350 feet Yellow
20 feet from bitter end of chain Red – Yellow - Red
400 feet Red
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9.5.4 Anchor Windlass
The anchor windlasses are 24V Maxwell 3500s. With
two foot-switches and remote control stations at the
lower helm. Windlass breakers are located below the
generator control panel.
9.5.5 Lowering the Anchor
The anchor windlasses can be controlled both at the
helm and by foot pedal switches at the anchor
platform.
9.5.6 Raising the Anchor
The anchor windlasses can be controlled both at the
helm and by foot pedal switches at the anchor
platform.
9.5.7 Chain Locker
The all chain anchor rode runs from the anchor, over
the bow roller, around the chain wheel, and down
through the hawsepipe into the chain locker. There are
separate port and starboard chain lockers for each
anchor. The chain locker is accessed through the wall hatch above the VIP stateroom berth.
9.5.8 Anchor Bridle
The anchor bridle is stored in the starboard bridge bench seat locker. The bridle consists of two
lengths of nylon line and a chain hook that latches onto a link of the anchor chain. After your
anchor is confidently set, always rig the anchor bridle.
9.5.9 Anchor Rode Jams
As the anchor enters the chain locker, the pile of chain might occasionally tumble into the bottom
of the chain locker. If the chain falls into a tumble, the chain may back up into the hawsepipe
causing a jam at the windlass. Stop and windlass and send a crewmember down to the VIP berth
to access the chain locker and knock the pile over.
Be careful when dealing with the chain. If a crew member is operating the windlass while a
person is accessing the chain locker, be especially careful to keep that person’s fingers, hands,
arms, etc. away from the chain. Use the windlass handle or broomstick to deal with the chain.
If the chain jams while lowering the anchor, it is because one loop of the chain on top of the pile
has fallen inside another loop of chain. There is no way the chain can become tangled so you will
never need to disconnect it. One easy way to disengtangle the chain is, while wearing gloves,
grasp the chain on the forward side of the windlass, and while lifting it above the wildcat
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 39
manually, rapidly yank it up and down. This will usually free it. If it does not, look in the chain
locker and un-overlap the layers of chain in the pile.
Be sure to leave the windlass breakers ‘OFF’ when not in use. This prevents damage in the
event that the footswitch fails.
9.5.10 Saltwater Washdown Pump
The boat is equipped with a salt water pump in the engine room, a spigot on the port side bow
pulpit, and a hose to wash down the anchor chain when hauling anchor. The spigot on the
starboard side is fresh water. Use only if necessary as this will use up the freshwater FAST.
For the system to operate, turn on the ‘salt water pump’ breaker on the 12V panel. Turn off the
pump when you are done with it to prevent pump cycling.
The saltwater pump, sea-cock, and strainer are located mid-forward port hull in the engine room.
10.0 Bilge Pumps
Ensure that the bilge pumps and high water alarm
circuit breakers are always on. They are not
controlled by the main battery switch on the DC
panel. The bilge pumps are controlled by 3-way
switches mounted on the overhead dashboard above
the pilothouse helm. The up position is ON, the
middle position is OFF, and the down position is
AUTO. Leave the bilge switches in the down position
so they will automatically switch on as needed. The
bilge pump counters are on the left side of overhead
instrument panel. Each time a bilge pump switches on, the appropriate counter will be
incremented by one click. If the bilge pumps are turned on often, investigate the source of the
leak into the bilge.
40| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
11.0 Bow and Stern Thrusters
La Vida is equipped with both bow and stern thrusters. These
thrusters are hydraulic and can operate for extended bursts
without overheating. The main engines must be running for the
hydraulic pumps to operate for the thrusters to work. Controls for
the thrusters are at each of the five control stations and are turned
on by pressing the green button. The thrusters are variable speed
relative to how far you push the joystick control. To stop the
thruster you must return the joystick to the center position; they
do not snap back to center. When you are done with the thrusters,
press the red button to disengage the hydraulic pumps.
12.0 Roll Stabilizers
The boat is fitted with an ABT TRAC hydraulic fin type
active stabilizer system that reduce the roll of the
boat when underway and reach full effectiveness at
speeds over 7.5 knots. The stabilizer hydraulic
pumps are driven by the port engine and the fins on
the underside of the vessel are controlled by a
control head at the pilothouse helm.
12.1.1 Caution
• The stabilizer system MUST BE OPERATING whenever the vessel is underway.
• Stabilizers component damage could occur if the vessel is MANEUVERED or REVERSED when the fins are not ‘CENTERED’
• Any fin that cannot be in the ‘ACTIVE’ or ‘CENTERED’ state needs to be mechanically pinned as soon as possible.
12.1.2 Start-up Procedure
1. Startup engines
2. Turn ‘ON’ the circuit breaker labeled STABILIZERS on the 24V panel.
3. ENABLE both fins at the control panel.
4. CENTER fins at the control panel
5. Normal operation of stabilizer is CENTER or ACTIVE
6. CENTER the fins when entering a harbor or when docking
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 41
13.0 Tender, Davit, and Outboard Motor
1000 lb. Marquipt Davit on the flybridge is operated
with a remote control that is stored in the starboard
flybridge cabinet along with spare parts and oil for
the outboard engine. The davit circuit breaker
switch is on the 24V DC panel. The remote operated
the davit arm up, down, left, right and spools out the
cable.
Launching the dingy is a two-person operation. One
person operating the davit and another controlling
the movement of the dingy.
To launch the inflatable tender:
1. Install the plug at the bottom of the transom of the dingy, on the outside,
2. Plug in remote control on side of davit arm,
3. Turn on davit breaker on 24 V panel,
4. Spool out cable and release the carabiner from lanyard,
5. Raise the davit arm so that carabiner is directly over the ring in the center of lifting bridle
and connect the carabiner to the bridle,
6. Release the hold-down straps,
7. Raise the engine slightly so that it will not scrape on the deck as the dingy is lifted.
8. Raise and steady the motion of the dingy to a position where it will clear the rail.
9. Swing the davit arm and dingy over the port side of the boat.
10. Lower the dingy over the side and into the water.
11. Secure the stern line and bow line to the side of the boat.
12. Remove the carabiner from the bridle and stow the davit.
13. Lower the outboard motor into the water.
14. Squeeze the fuel bulb in the fuel line near the motor until firm.
15. Turn on battery switch.
16. Push up as you turn the ignition key to engage the automatic choke.
a. The engine should start right away, if not, try again with short turns of the ignition.
17. Release the key when the engine starts and allow it to warm up for a few minutes.
18. The driver should clip the ‘kill switch’ lanyard onto their PFD.
a. This is a new coast guard requirement.
42| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
14.0 Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble, please call our on-call technician at 360-393-5309 for help.
14.1 Engine overheating
An engine will overheat if there is significant debris in the basket inside of the sea strainer that
is restricting the flow of water through the heat exchanger and out the transom of the engine
• Is the engine temperature gauge reading higher than 210°F?
• Is there significant debris in the sea water strainer?
To clean the seawater strainer:
1. Seawater is supplied through a thru-hull valve located forward of each engine. 2. Close the thru hull valve by turning the handle perpendicular to valve. 3. Open the top of the strainer by hand; the cap should be hand-tight. 4. Pull out the basket and dump the debris into the garbage. Replace basket into strainer 5. Screw the top back into position and tighten to snub, do not overtighten 6. Open the valve at the bottom of the seawater strainer. 7. Start up the engine, and check for water flow through the seawater cooling system 8. Check for leaks at the seawater strainer. 9. Monitor engine temperature.
14.2 Fuel filter
If an engine begins to slow down for no apparent reason, the fuel filter may be clogged, and
you will need to go to the engine room and switch to the backup filter.
To switch fuel filters:
1. Slow the engines down to idle and shift the engines into neutral. 2. Have a crewmember take watch as you enter the engine room. 3. Turn the valve handle at the front of the Racor filter so that it points toward the backup
filter. 4. Check the fuel filter of the other engine, if there is excessive sediment, switch that filter
as well. 5. Let the engine idle for a minute before increasing the throttle to cruising speed.
14.3 Outboard motor
A cold outboard motor may be reluctant to start, be patient and try a few times. If the motor
will not start:
1. Check the gear shift lever to be sure that it is neutral. 2. Check the gas tank vent. 3. Squeeze the fuel line bulb until firm. 4. Advance the free-throttle arm. 5. Try starting again.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 43
14.4 Low battery
Having a low battery may indicate that it has been charged adequately and/or some lights are
left on. Check the breaker switches to be sure that unused circuits are turned off. Review
section 5.1.5
1. Start up one of the generators and switch the AC Selector switch to the corresponding generator.
2. Be sure the INVERTER and BATTERY CHARGER breaker switches are on. 3. Be sure the MASTER BREAKER switch is on. 4. Check the AC voltmeter, it should read 110 volts or more. 5. The ammeter should read an amp draw of 20 amps or so. 6. Let the batteries charge until the Inverter reads Float Charge.
14.5 Anchor
14.5.1 Anchor chain is stuck in anchor locker
If the anchor chain becomes tangled, it will not come up out of the locker. You will need to sort
this out down below in the forward cabin.
1. Turn off the windlass switch. 2. Pull all the bedding and mattress from the forward bunk. 3. Open the chain locker. 4. You may need to pull the chain out of the locker onto the forward bunk. There may be a
tarp or a rug from the floor you can use to control the mess. 5. Sort the chain out so that it can be deployed with the anchor. 6. When you pick up the anchor, have a crew member flake the chain in the locker to
prevent the chain from piling up and falling over onto itself.
14.5.2 Anchor is stuck on the bottom
If the anchor is firmly attached to the bottom:
1. Maneuver the boat so that it is directly over the anchor, 2. Pull all the slack chain up so that the chain is straight up and down, 3. Set the brake on the windlass, 4. Motor forward over the anchor in the opposite direction than you set the anchor, 5. You will feel the anchor break loose from the bottom, 6. Release the windlass brake and pull the anchor up.
14.5.3 Anchor windlass will not turn
1. Check the windlass brake, if it is tight, it will prevent the windlass from turning. 2. Check to windlass switch, it should be on, and the light should be on. 3. Sometimes the foot switches fail; try raising or lowering the anchor with the switches on
the windlass switch panel. 4. If the windlass switch and light is on, the break is loose, and the windlass still will not
turn using the foot switches or switches at the helm, you may need to use the windlass
44| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
handle to raise the anchor. The handle fits into the collar next to the gypsy chain drum. Using this manual retrieval is slow and tedious but you will get the anchor back.
14.6 Toilet will not flush
If one of the toilets will not flush check the breaker switch on the 12-volt DC panel, it should be
on. If both toilets will not flush, the holding tank may be full, and you will need to pump out the
holding tank.
In case of a clogged toilet, get the plunger stored in the port side bridge bench hatch (forward
of the pilot house). DO NOT use a plunger as you normally would, instead put the plunger into
the bowl, and hold it down firmly against the bowl to create a seal around the plunger. Push
the switch to flush the head while holding down the plunger. The high-pressure jet of water
will force the clog through to the holding tank.
14.7 Freshwater does not flow at faucet
Check to see if the ‘FRESH WATER PUMP I’ breaker switch is on at the 120V AC panel, or ‘FRESH
WATER PUMP II’ breaker switch on the 12-volt DC panel is on. Use the AC pump if the
generator is running or you are plugged into shorepower. Use the DC pump if there is no AC
input.
If the tanks are empty, water from the faucet will be mixed with air and may cause the
freshwater pump to lose its prime. You will need to fill the water tanks either at the dock or
with the watermaker. When there is water in the tanks, the freshwater pump should prime
itself when it operates.
14.8 Hitting a log
Please keep a good look out to avoid hitting logs and other debris in the water. If you do hit a
log or debris:
1. Throttle back to idle immediately and shift the engines to neutral until you are well past danger.
2. If the hit was significant, check for damage, 3. Check the bilges for any water coming in, 4. Check the lazarette for water, 5. If water is coming into the boat, you are in an emergency; go to Emergency Procedures. 6. If no water is flowing into the boat, then put the boat back into gear at idle speed, is the
boat vibrating? a. If so, the propeller and or propeller shaft has been bent. You may be able to
motor to a protected harbor at idle speed or with a single engine. Keep both engines running but, if necessary, use only one engine in gear.
b. Call NW Explorations immediately at 360-393-5309 c. If not, slowly throttle up to cruising speed and check for vibration. You were
lucky this time. Keep a good watch to avoid debris, rocks and reefs.2
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 45
14.9 Hitting a rock or submerged object
1. Throttle back to idle immediately and shift the engines to neutral. 2. Are all crew members onboard and uninjured? 3. If the hit was significant, check for damage, 4. Check the bilges for any water coming in; forward bilge is under the floor in the forward
cabin, midship bilge is in the engine room and aft bilge is in the lazarette. 5. If water is coming into the boat, you are in an emergency; go to Emergency Procedures. 6. If no water is flowing into the boat, are you hard aground? 7. If so, are you in immediate danger.
a. if so, go to Emergency Procedures. b. If not, will the rising tide lift you off?
8. Call NW Explorations immediately at 360-393-5309. 9. If possible, launch the inflatable tender and have it standing by. 10. If possible, back off from the rock or object as the tide lifts the boat up. 11. Idle into a protected harbor and dock or anchor.
14.10 Running into a fishing net
Give a wide berth to fishing activities and keep a good look out for nets and other objects in the
water. Gill nets are difficult to see until you are close. If you cannot determine where a net
ends, head for the fishing boat and pass by in front of the boat, the net is usually attached to
the stern of the boat. If you do run into a net:
1. Throttle back to idle immediately and shift the engines to neutral. 2. Do not try to back out, this will foul the propellers and damage the net. 3. Try to push the net away with boat hooks. 4. Launch the inflatable tender and use it to pull the boat out of the net. 5. Allow the fisherman to assist. 6. You may need a diver to help untangle the net from your propellers.
Note: You are responsible for the damage to fishing gear; you will need to contact the
fisherman to arrange compensation for any damage to their nets or other fishing equipment.
46| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
15.0 Operating Checklists
15.1 Engine Room Checks
1. Coolant level in expansion tanks
2. Sea strainer and through hulls: clear of debris
3. Oil absorbent pads under engines
4. Fuel filters and fuel manifold
5. Oil level in engines
15.2 Starting Engines
o All lines clear of propellers
o Engine control levers in neutral
o SYNCH toggle switch in middle position (off)
o Engine control and monitor breakers are ‘ON’ under each engine monitor
o Turn both keys to the ‘ON’ position and ensure that the engine monitors are reading
engine status.
o Turn one key to start the engine and release back to ‘ON’ position.
o Repeat for the other engine.
15.3 After the Engines Have Started
o Turn on Electronics
o Trim Tabs
o Autopilot
o Monitors
o Chart plotter
o Furuno Sounder
o Sonar
o AIS
o Sounder
o Stabilizers
o Thrusters
o Radar
o Check cooling water flow – the exhaust is underwater so check cooling water flow by
touching the heat exchanger on engine
o Check the engine and generator rooms to ensure there are no oil, water, fuel leaks and
that all loose equipment are properly secured.
o Close and secure the engine room door.
o Center the rudder.
o Ensure stabilizers are in the locked position.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 47
15.4 Stopping the Engines
o SYNCH toggle switch must be in the middle positon (off).
o Throttle back to idle speed, shift to neutral, and allow engines to idle for a few minutes
to cool down.
o For each engine, push to red stop button until the engine stops.
o Turn the key to ‘OFF’ position for each engine.
o Turn the engine control and engine monitor breakers to ‘OFF’.
15.5 Starting the Generator(s)
o Hold Preheat to the right for 10 seconds.
o While holding preheat, hold the start button until the gauges show the generator has
started.
o Release both buttons.
o Let the generator run for about 5 minutes to warm up.
15.6 Switch from Shore Power
o Shut off AC 220V breakers.
o Turn black knobs to generator 1 or generator 2 (whichever the light is on).
o Turn on AC 220V breakers.
o Shut off AC 110V breakers.
o Turn black knobs to generator 1 or generator 2 (whichever the light is on).
o Turn on AC 110V breakers.
o Turn black shore power knobs to off.
o Turn off breaker at dock
o Disconnect and stow the shore power cables.
15.7 Stopping the Generator(s)
o Shut off breakers.
o Let the generator run for about 5 minutes to cool down.
o Shut off the generator.
15.8 Switch from Generator to Inverter
o Shut off breakers.
o Turn left black knob to inverter.
o Turn right black knob to off.
o Turn on AC 110V breakers.
o Let the generator run for about 5 minutes to cool down.
o Shut off the generator.
48| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
15.9 Preparing to Leave the Dock
o Ensure stabilizers are locked.
o Center the rudders.
o Shore power cables disconnected and stowed.
o Navigation electronics are on.
o Running lights on if required.
o VHF radios turned on and volume checked.
o Doors and hatches secured.
o Lines removed and secured.
15.10 Immediately After Leaving the Dock
o Stow fenders and lines.
15.11 Normal Cruising
o Helmsperson on watch at all times.
o RPM under 1200 RPM until engines warms to 140F.
o Always throttle back to idle before engaging forward or reverse gear.
15.12 Approaching Dock
o Ensure stabilizers are locked.
o Center the rudders.
o Thrusters on with the appropriate helm station enabled (push “start”).
o Fenders out on appropriate side and adjusted to a few inches above the water.
o Dock lines rigged through fairleads, not over rails and secured to cleats.
o Bow lines outside stanchions and bloused around stanchions towards bridge.
15.13 Arriving at Dock
o Lines secure, including spring lines.
o Shutdown engines.
o Running lights ‘OFF’.
o Connect to shore power.
o Turn ‘ON’ inverter charger.
15.14 Connecting to Shore Power
o Connect shore power cord to shore power using Glendinning Cablemaster. Ensure that
Cablemaster breaker is turned on and use the swith in the cabinet to deploy and retrieve
the cable.
o Turn on circuit breaker on the dock
o Switch shore power system selector select to aft or rear.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 49
o Shut off AC 220V breakers.
o Turn black knobs to shore power 1 or shore power 2 (whichever the light is on).
o Turn on AC 220V breakers.
o Shut off AC 110V breakers.
o Turn black knobs to shore power 1 or shore power 2 (whichever the light is on).
o Turn on AC 110V breakers.
15.15 Anchoring
o The boat should be idling facing into the wind.
o Ensure that the windlass breakers are on.
o Release the anchor safety line and chain stopper.
o Press the down switch to lower the selected anchor.
o Let out the proper amount of rode based on scope desired. Chain length marks are listed
below.
o Move the throttle in and out of reverse to lay out chain straight ahead.
o After the proper amount of rode is laid out, put the throttles in reverse for three seconds
to tug and set the anchor.
o Attach the bridle, stowed in the starboard bridge bench seat locker, secure the chain in
front of the anchor roller with the chain hook and lower the chain until the lines to the
bow cleats are taut, and lower chain an addition 10 feet or more to create a weighted
loop in the anchor chain.
o Perform an anchor watch for the first 30 minutes.
o Both anchor chains are marked with yellow and red paint designating the following
lengths:
10 feet from anchor Red - Yellow - Red
50 feet Yellow
100 feet Red
150 feet Yellow
200 feet Red
250 feet Yellow
300 feet Red
350 feet Yellow
400 feet Red
10 feet from bitter end of chain Red - Yellow - Red
When the anchor has reached the bottom begin backing away with both engines in reverse for 3
seconds and continue to lower chain. Continue backing slowly and lowering chain until the
desired length of chain is in the water (generally 4:1 scope). Set the anchor by a short pull in
50| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
reverse. When the anchor chain lifts out of the water in a straight line, the anchor is set. La Vida
has enough power to plow the anchor through the bottom, doing so will drag the anchor and you
will need to reset the anchor.
If the chain rumbles, clunks, and seems to release in bursts, it means that the anchor is dragging
across a rocky bottom and is not setting. Be patient; it may grab, or you may need to reset the
anchor.
15.16 Pulling up Anchor
o The engines should always be idling when you are retrieving the anchor.
o Ensure that the windlass breakers are on.
o Turn on the saltwater washdown pump. The hose is at port bridge bench locker.
o Connect the hose to the port spigot to rinse the chain and anchor.
o Press the up-foot button to bring up the anchor chain and remove the bridle.
o Continue to press the up-foot button to bring up the anchor chain, stopping as needed to
clean the chain.
o Wash the chain with plenty of sea water before it comes over the roller to keep the mud
off the boat. Try to create a waterfall of water down the chain to remove all mud and
debris. Do not stow a muddy or debris filled chain.
o As the chain tightens and starts to bog down the windlass, wait until the boat catches up,
then continue. Do not pull the boat forward by the anchor chain through the water.
o When the anchor is clear of the water, make sure it is clear of mud. A boat brush and
hose may be needed.
o Raise the anchor from the water with short bursts of the windlass; be sure that the anchor
is facing the proper direction.
o The anchor chain tends to build up (castle) in the anchor locker when being retrieved. We
have found that its important to have a crew member help distribute the chain as it pools
in the locker in order to allow all of it to be retrieved without clogging the hawes pipe.
o Attach the anchor safety line and lower the chain stopper.
o Release the tension on the chain slightly to take the strain off the windlass.
LA VIDA OPERATION MANUAL NW Explorations | 51
16.0 Emergency Procedures
Protect your Crew and Yourself
1. Assemble your crew; is everybody OK. Is anybody injured and in need of first aid. 2. Put on life jackets. 3. Contact the Coast Guard with an emergency “MAYDAY” call on Channel 16.
a. MAYDAY is appropriate if life is at risk. b. PAN PAN is appropriate if life is not at risk.
4. If adrift, prepare to anchor to keep the boat from drifting into danger. 5. If the boat is really sinking, consider “beaching it” if necessary. 6. Launch the inflatable tender and prepare to board if necessary.
a. Take a handheld VHF radio and tender dry bag, b. Wear life jackets.
When your Crew is Safe
1. Call NW Exploration at 360-393-5309. 2. In a true emergency, you are authorized to call for immediate commercial assistance as needed
for the safety of your crew and the boat. 3. If not an emergency,
a. At moderate speed motor to the closest harbor to dock or anchor. b. IF needed, a NW Exploration technician will travel to you to assistance. c. NW Explorations must give approval for any work completed by other mechanics or
vessel-assist if you are to be reimbursed for the cost of assistance.
If you think it may not be an emergency
1. If you have any concern about your long-term safety, contact the Coast Guard, on VHF Channel 16 advising them about your situation, so they can be prepared to provide assistance when needed. You may also use the urgent ‘PAN PAN’ call on VHF Channel 16.
2. Assign tasks to crew members to monitor the status and safety of the boat and crew while you work to stabilize any damage. For example, delegate your mate to keep a watch for hazards, or to operate the boat on course slowly while you deal with the difficulty.
3. Checklist for solving the problem: a. Identify and isolate the problem. b. Find the manuals. c. Find the tools and parts. d. Call NW Explorations for advice and help.
Calling for Assistance
1. If you need assistance, first please call NW Exploration 360-393-5309. 2. If you need to be towed call:
Capt. Richard Rodriguez Director of Operations Zenith Maritime 360.531.0698 VHF Channel 16 Members of TowBoat US may call 800-391-4869
52| LA VIDA OPERATING MANUAL NW Explorations
air conditioning ........................................................ 16
AIS ............................................................................ 32
Anchor ..................................................................... 37
anchor bridle ........................................................... 38
Anchor chain is stuck in anchor locker .................... 43
Anchor Chain Markings............................................ 37
Anchor is stuck ......................................................... 43
Anchor Rode Jams ................................................... 38
Anchor windlass will not turn .................................. 43
Anchoring ................................................................ 33
autopilot .................................................................. 30
Barbeque ................................................................. 17
bilge pumps ............................................................. 39
Charging the Batteries ............................................. 21
Chartplotter ............................................................. 31
clogged toilet ..................................................... 15, 44
Cooktop ................................................................... 17
Davit ......................................................................... 41
Emergency Procedures ............................................ 51
Engine Controls ........................................................ 26
Engine overheating .................................................. 42
Engine Start-Up ........................................................ 27
Engines..................................................................... 22
Entertainment System ............................................. 17
Freshwater does not flow at faucet ......................... 44
Fuel filter.................................................................. 42
Fuel Filters ............................................................... 24
Fuel Management .................................................... 28
Generators ............................................................... 20
Head Systems .......................................................... 15
Hitting a log ............................................................. 44
Hitting a rock ........................................................... 45
holding tank monitor ............................................... 16
Inverter .................................................................... 20
Launching the dingy ................................................. 41
Low battery .............................................................. 43
Maneuvering ........................................................... 32
Operating Checklists ................................................ 46
Outboard motor ...................................................... 42
Oven ........................................................................ 17
Radar........................................................................ 31
Rafting ..................................................................... 36
Refrigerators ............................................................ 17
Running into a fishing net ........................................ 45
salt water pump ....................................................... 39
Salt water pump ...................................................... 39
Shore Tie .................................................................. 35
Shorepower ............................................................. 20
SLOW VESSEL ........................................................... 26
sounder .............................................................. 30, 32
stabilizer system ...................................................... 40
switch fuel filters ..................................................... 25
Synchronizing Engine ............................................... 26
Thrusters .................................................................. 40
To clean the seawater strainer ................................ 42
To switch fuel filters ................................................ 42
Toilet will not flush .................................................. 44
toilets ....................................................................... 15
Troubleshooting ...................................................... 42
TV 17
VHF radios ................................................................ 30
Washer & Dryer ....................................................... 17
Windlass .................................................................. 38
windlass breaker ...................................................... 34