Download Fastech Sect 1.qxd

FASTECH
DOCKING
Approach a dock slowly and use caution. Plan
your maneuvers ahead of time. Allow wind and
current movement to help maneuver your boat.
Do not use your hands, arms or another
part of your body to attempt to keep the
boat from hitting the dock. The boat could
push against the dock, causing severe
injury.
1
1
FOR181
1. Wind or Current
Docking
Figure 7-18
Follow these guidelines when docking:
●
●
●
Come to a stop a short distance from the
dock, then proceed slowly.
Have your fenders, mooring lines and the
crew ready.
Observe how the wind and current are
moving your boat. Approach the dock with
the boat pointed into the wind, if possible. If
the wind or current is pushing you away from
the dock, use a sharper angle of approach. If
you must approach the dock downwind or
7-18
●
●
●
down current, use a slow speed and shallow
angle. Be ready to reverse to stop and
maintain position.
If there is no wind or current, approach the
dock at a 10° to 20° angle.
If possible, throw a line to a person on the
dock and have that person secure a bow line.
If no one is on the dock, maneuver as close
as you can, then secure any line to a piling or
dock cleat.
With the bow secure, swing the stern in using
engine thrust, or pull it in with a boat hook.
FASTECH
FORMULA