The Boat Crew Seamanship Manual presents the approved methods and procedures for the conduct of Coast Guard boat operations. The Coast Guard Auxiliary, for the conduct of vessel facility operations, also uses this Manual.

1. PURPOSE. This Handbook presents the approved methods and procedures for the conduct of Coast Guard boat operations. Major topics within this handbook are boat crew duties and responsibilities, towing, person in the water recovery, rescue assistance and fire fighting, and air operations. 2. DIRECTIVES AFFECTED. The Boat Crew Seamanship Manual, COMDTINST M16114.5C, is canceled. 3. DISCUSSION. This Handbook provides guidance on how to engage in safe and effective boat operations. 4. MAJOR CHANGES. First issue.

1. PURPOSE. This Handbook explains good seamanship fundamentals and how they apply to boat operations. Major topics within this handbook are Seamanship Fundamentals, Boat Characteristics, Stability, Weather and Oceanography, and Boat Handling. 2. DIRECTIVES AFFECTED. The Boat Crew Seamanship Manual, COMDTINST M16114.5C, is canceled. 3. DISCUSSION. The subjects and principles discussed herein include marlinespike seamanship, boat characteristics, stability, weather and oceanography, and boat handling. 4. MAJOR CHANGES. First issue. 5. DISCLAIMER. This guidance is not a substitute for applicable legal requirements, nor is it itself a rule. It is intended to provide operational guidance for Coast Guard personnel and is not intended to nor does it impose legally-binding requirements on any party outside the Coast Guard. 6. IMPACT ASSESSMENT. No impact assessment warranted.

Make the U.S. Coast Guard your first mate The Small-Boat Seamanship Manual contains all the information found in the Coast Guard's official 1,200-page training manual, giving you access to the highest standards of seamanship practiced and perfected by professional mariners. In addition to in-depth coverage of boat handling and navigation, you’ll find instructions for dealing with extreme situations, including search and rescue, towing, firefighting, vessel flood management, righting capsized boats, and maneuvering in heavy surf. You’ll also learn about Steering with a broken hydraulic line Close-quarters maneuvering Using the right lines and knots Capsize prevention, precautions, and survival techniques Change-of-course maneuvers to reduce icing and freezing spray Plugging and patching holes for flood control Predicting weather And much more This is the U.S. Coast Guard's primary training resource for boat handling and seamanship in conditions ranging from benign to extreme. Now this accumulated wisdom is yours with the Small-Boat Seamanship Manual.