THE HARBOR COLUMN:

Ahoy.

The weather predictions look favorable this weekend with the air temperatures in the 70s and clear skies once the fog burns off in the morning. The sea conditions are questionable, however, as the National Weather Service is calling for 4- to 6-foot swells Saturday, and decreasing Sunday to 3- to 5-foot swells. I think the swells will be less off our coast, and the sea conditions should be good for venturing out on the ocean.

People are asking me about the weather for Thanksgiving, because there was a rumor about rain. I predict temperatures near 70 degrees and sunny with a few clouds, and no rain.

My forecast is better than when the TV meteorologist calls for 50% chance of precipitation, which means they are correct either way.

As always, I have a caveat that you should always check the weather conditions before you venture off the dock or, especially, out the jetty entrance.

The tip of the week is to cruise the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade’s route this weekend to familiarize yourself with the turns.

Remember, at nighttime your visibility is decreased and landmarks may not be visible in the dark.

Let me suggest what you need to do and look for when you are running the course as practice.

First, observe the distances between the moorings and the shoreline and how you can safely navigate around the bends.

Make note of the unlit yellow racing markers, and other markers that are in the course.

Also, note where you can drop out of the parade if your boat starts to have mechanical problems.

Can you stop your boat and hold position anywhere along the route?

Close quarter maneuvering is the name of the game when skippering, and remember to constantly look behind you before you turn.

Lastly, speed kills, so you want to cruise safely and slowly and when in the actual parade to follow the directions for the parade control volunteers.

Lastly, all skippers should attend the skipper’s meeting at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 5 in City Hall. You can download a copy of the route at www.ChristmasBoatParade.com, and the approximate times are listed on the map too.

Remember to tune in 11 a.m. Saturdays to “Capt. Mike Whitehead’s Boathouse Radio Show” on KLAA-AM (830).

Safe Voyages.

MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot’s boating columnist. Send marine-related thoughts and story suggestions to mike@boathousetv.com or go to www.boathousetv.com.