Cruising boats are equipped with auxiliary engines, which drive the boat by means of a propeller. Boats usually motor along with sails down, but they can “motorsail” with the mainsail up. When powering, remember that a line in the water can wrap around the propeller, disabling the engine. Make a habit of checking lines before starting the engine!
Engine controls are located close to the steering station so the helms- man can operate the throttle and gear shiſt.
The turning propeller moves the boat. The path of the propeller moving through the water resembles a spiral like a giant corkscrew.
When the engine is in forward gear, the propeller rotates and drives the boat forward.
When the engine is shifted into reverse, the propeller turns in the opposite direc- tion driving the boat backward.
