Owning a boat offers numerous moments of wonderful enjoyment, whether you’re at the helm on a calm freshwater lake or simply kicking your feet up with a cocktail in hand, surrounded by friends and family. Boating aside, it is also important you learn how to dock your boat correctly and securely. The following are the most important things to remember when docking a boat:
Relax
While docking a boat, remember to keep calm, take it gradually and get as much practice as you can. Panic is the last thing you or your team should do. Screaming at your dockhands is not a good idea.
Prepare to Dock
Untangle your Lines
Untangle your lines and place them in a convenient location. Nothing disrupts a docking technique like untangling lines while attempting to keep your boat close to the dock.
Prep your Lines and Fenders
Always rig fenders and lines before arriving at the pier; place the fenders on the boat at the proper height so that they meet the pier when you arrive. They should be hovering just above the waterline most of the time (not touching the water).
Tie the Bow and Stern Lines
Connect your boat’s front (or bow) to the dock with a bowline. It can be used as a tow or support for docking your boat, although many boaters mistake leading with the bow when docking when they should be tossing a spring line. The stern line to the side boat cleat will be attached to the dock.
Use your Spring
Wrap a spring line on a cleat that is either front or further back on the dock after it has been flung or handed off to limit movement and bring you in closer. You should not lock the line; wrap it to move it fast and maintain maximum control.
This prevents your boat from moving forward or backward and reduces pounding against the dock. If the wind or river pushes you off, you can use this spring line to go closer to the dock.
Approach the Dock
– Don’t drive too fast or you risk crashing into the dock.
– Begin by approaching the dock at a 45-degree angle.
– Slowly float in and when your bow reaches the pier, slowly reverse the boat, pointing the engine toward the dock and reverse until the stern reaches the port.
Depending on the water depth, other boats or obstacles, you may not always have the ideal approach path. Point the bow slightly beyond the docking location you want to use. Consider the wind and current once you’ve determined your approach angle.
Tie the Boat to the Dock
Once you’ve arrived at the pier safely, it’s time to secure the boat. Tie off and analyze the issue. Rather than going through the docking process all over again, you may quickly make modest alterations by hand.
Docking a boat may be scary and stressful, particularly for people new to boating. Fortunately, the process does not have to be complex and new and experienced boaters alike may rapidly master the operation by following a few basic steps. At Beachside Docks, we assist our customers by answering any queries and requirements they may have concerning boat docks, lifts and accessories. Reach out for the ultimate boating experience!