Docking your boat

What is docking a boat?

Docking your boat involves smoothly maneuvering your vessel towards the dock, aligning it in a parallel manner with precision. Utilizing ropes, known as dock lines to securely fasten your boat to the dock.

Is docking a boat difficult?

Docking a boat can often be a nerve-wracking experience, especially for those who are new to boating. However, mastering the art of docking doesn't have to be difficult. By following a few simple steps, both novice and experienced boaters can quickly become experts in maneuvering their vessel with precision.

What should you do when docking your boat?

secure one end of the docking lines onboard
prepare the fenders.
reduce the speed of the boat
consider the strength of the wind or current

Docking - Wind is offshore (blowing away from the dock)

You should approach the dock at a 20 to 30 degree angle. A bow line is passed ashore and secured. In boats with an outboard, or inboard/outboard engine, the engine is turned towards the dock and put in reverse. This will bring the stern into the dock. The boat can then be secured with the stern line.

Procedure for boats with inboard engines

The rudder will be used to bring the stern in. To push the stern in using the rudder, attach an after bow spring to keep the boat from moving forward. With the engine idling forward, turn the wheel away from the dock as illustrated below. Since the boat cannot move forward and the rudder is pushing the stern in, the boat will pin itself against the dock while you secure the other lines. All maneuvers are more easily accomplished if the boat has twin engines, rather than a single engine. (This will also work for outboards and I/Os.)

Prepare lines and fenders.
Proceed slowly.
Attach spring line.
Turn wheel away from dock.