Stern-In Docking: Mastering The Art Of Boat Control

Docking a boat stern-in can be a stressful experience for sailors, especially when compared to docking bow-in. However, it does have its advantages. For example, it is generally easier to load gear and get on and off the boat from the cockpit than over the bow. While docking a boat stern-in can be challenging, there are several techniques and best practices that can make the process smoother. These include preparing the boat in advance by positioning fenders and lines, being gentle with the throttle, and communicating effectively with the crew and dockhands.

Single-engine inboard/outdrive boats

Docking a single-engine inboard/outdrive boat can be stressful, especially when reversing into a slip. However, with practice and an understanding of the boat's characteristics, you can master the controls and dock like a pro. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

Prepare for Docking

Before you begin the docking manoeuvre, it is essential to have fenders and dock lines ready. Deploy the fenders and prepare the bow and stern lines on the side where you plan to tie up, or preferably all around as a precaution. While it is possible to dock a boat alone, having a helper or two can make the process much easier. Be mindful of your surroundings and water conditions, including wind and current, as these factors can impact your docking.

Understand Prop Walk

The propeller on your boat will rotate in a specific direction, which influences how the boat moves. Understanding "prop walk" is crucial. When reversing, most single inboards tend to pull to starboard, even with the wheel turned to port. This characteristic can make docking more challenging, but it can also be used to your advantage. If your boat pulls to starboard, docking on that side will be easier, and vice versa.

Approach the Dock

As you approach the dock, maintain a slow speed and take your time. It is better to go in and out of gear multiple times than to rush and risk crunching the dock. Keep the throttle at a low setting and use neutral to your advantage. This allows your boat to pivot without moving forward or backward too much. Approach the dock at an angle of about 30 to 40 degrees.

Ease into the Dock

Gently bring the bow within a few feet of the dock. Then, come out of gear to slow down and use a bit of reverse to swing the transom into the dock. If the stern is swinging too fast, a slight forward throttle adjustment with the wheel turned starboard and then back to centre will correct it. If you cannot make a U-turn to dock on the starboard side, docking to port will require more effort. Ensure you have ample room and use forward momentum to swing the stern in.

Final Adjustments

Once you are close to the dock, make any necessary adjustments to align the boat properly. If the stern is about 5 feet from the bulkhead, centre the helm and give a quick burst of forward power to stop the boat and bring it closer to the dock. Depending on your boat's characteristics, a short burst of reverse power may also bring the stern towards the dock due to prop walk. At this point, the crew can step ashore and secure the boat with the bow and stern lines.

Remember that docking a single-engine inboard/outdrive boat takes practice and familiarity with your boat's handling. Each boat is unique, and factors such as rudder size, keel length, and hull profile will influence its manoeuvrability. Take the time to understand how your boat moves and adjust your techniques accordingly.

Privacy and control

Docking a boat can be a stressful experience, especially for new sailors. One of the main considerations is whether to dock bow-in or stern-in. Stern-in docking has many advantages over docking with the bow in towards the land. One of the main reasons for this preference is privacy. Docking stern-in allows you to keep your stern away from the traffic on the pier and provides more privacy, as people tend to look down into cockpits as they walk the dock.

Stern-in docking also offers more control and maneuverability. It is generally easier to load gear and get on and off the boat from the cockpit than over the bow. Additionally, it is easier to control the stern angle into the slip using a bow thruster. Stern-in docking also makes it easier to abort the docking and move forward out of a tight spot.

However, docking stern-in can be more challenging, especially for those who are new to boating. Many boats steer poorly in reverse due to factors such as asymmetric propeller thrust, hull-water interaction, and wind conditions. It is important to practice docking in different conditions to improve your skills and better understand your boat's handling characteristics.

When it comes to privacy and control, docking stern-in can provide benefits such as increased maneuverability and privacy. However, it is important to consider the challenges and practice docking in different scenarios to improve your skills and ensure a smooth and controlled experience.

Prepare fenders and lines

Before you get to the dock, make sure you have at least two or three fenders, a bow line, a stern line, and a minimum of one spring line. The fenders should be placed just above the waterline, not touching the water.

When preparing to dock, first, get all the fenders into position. Next, put the stern lines on the cleat, coiled and ready to be thrown to someone on the dock. If you are mooring stern-to with a lazy line, you can throw the windward stern line, and then the leeward line.

If you are using a spring line, you can either back down or hedge forward on it. Once the spring line has been secured to the dock, turn the wheel hard to port and back down. If your boat has twin screws, use the starboard engine only to back down and cut the wheel hard to port. This will bring your vessel closer to the dock.

If you are docking in a marina, you can use a midships line around a piling or cleat, and then pivot into your slip. The position of the pivot point will depend on the size of your boat and slip.

Toss the right line

When docking a boat, it's important to toss the right line to the person on the dock. Unless you are among the top 1% of captains, avoid providing a bow line first. A bow line is a line tied to the front (or bow) of your boat. It is rarely useful when docking, and if you're facing the wind or current, dockhands won't be able to control the boat with it.

Instead, provide a spring line. A spring line prevents your boat from moving forward or backward and reduces banging against the dock. If the wind or current pushes you off the pier, you can use the spring line to get closer to it.

Once a dockhand has the spring line, they should wrap it around a cleat on the dock to minimise the boat's movement and bring it closer. They should not lock off the line but wrap it loosely so that you can quickly move it to gain more control.

If you are backing down, provide a forward spring line that you can back down on. Turn the wheel hard to port and back down once the spring line has been secured to the dock. If your boat has twin screws, use the starboard engine only to back down and cut the wheel hard to port. You will see your vessel inch closer to the dock.

After you've gotten close enough, have your deckhand provide a bow line to someone on the dock, preferably a dockhand.

How to toss a line

Tossing a line requires accuracy and practice. Here are the steps to follow:

• Approach the shore slowly and carefully. Reduce your speed to a minimum to ensure a slow and controlled approach.
• Assess the situation. Check for any obstructions, currents, or obstacles that may interfere with your approach or toss. Adjust your positioning accordingly.
• Prepare the line. Coil the line in a clockwise manner and then divide it into two equal sections, holding one section in each hand. Avoid tangles and knots.
• Grab the line. Hold the end of the line you intend to toss in your dominant hand. Place the outer section of the coil into the grip of your tossing hand's palm.
• Get ready to toss. Position yourself at the part of the boat nearest the intended location on the dock. This will typically be near the bow or stern, depending on the docking arrangement.
• Pick your target. Select the individual you intend to throw the line to and slightly adjust your aim to their left or right. This ensures they can easily catch the line without moving.
• Throw the line. Use an underhand motion for short to moderate distances. For longer distances, use an overhand motion or a sweeping sidearm toss to create more momentum. If you miss, adjust your aim, gather the line, and try again.
• Secure the line. After the individual on the dock catches the line, ask them to secure it to a piling or cleat. They may toss the line back to you to secure it to your vessel.
• Additional lines. Depending on the docking situation and your boat's size, you may need to toss and secure multiple lines.
• Monitor the boat's position. Watch the boat's alignment with the dock and make any adjustments to maintain stability and safety.

Final tips

• Always communicate with the helmsman and the person catching the line.
• Prioritise safety.
• Practice this technique.

Docking with two people

Docking a boat with two people on board can be a tricky endeavour, but with practice, it will become second nature. Here are some tips for docking a boat with a companion:

Before Docking

• Ensure that both you and your companion are familiar with the boat's handling characteristics. Practice makes perfect, so take the time to get to know your boat in a variety of conditions.
• Always be aware of wind and current conditions before docking. These factors can impact your boat's manoeuvrability and should be taken into account when planning your approach.
• Prepare the boat by positioning fenders and having lines ready to be thrown to someone on the dock.
• If possible, leave your permanent dock lines on the dock, measured out to the correct length, with the loop end ready to be put on a cleat on the boat. This saves time and reduces the risk of lines getting tangled during docking.
• Consider using spring lines. These can be left on the dock and provide greater control when docking, especially in windy or tidal conditions.
• If you have twin engines, familiarise yourself with how to use them to spin the boat and increase manoeuvrability. Alternating gears and using split throttles can help with steering.
• If possible, avoid docking in strong wind or tidal conditions. These can make docking more challenging, especially for less experienced crews.

During Docking

• Communication is key. Ensure that both you and your companion know their roles and responsibilities during docking.
• The person at the helm should focus on controlling the boat's speed and direction, while the other person can assist with lines and fenders.
• Approach the dock slowly and cautiously. Remember the saying, "never go faster than you want to hit something." Going slow gives you more time to react and makes it easier to correct mistakes.
• If possible, avoid having anyone jump onto the dock or the boat during docking. This can be dangerous, especially if the boat is still moving.
• Use neutral to regulate your speed and keep the boat moving slowly. Bumping the engines in and out of gear can help control your approach without building up too much speed.
• If you need to pivot the boat, look for a piling or dock post to use as a reference point. This can help you control your turn and prevent oversteering.
• Take your time and don't be afraid to back up and try again if your initial approach is not going as planned. It's better to take your time and dock safely than to rush and risk damaging your boat or another vessel.

After Docking

• Once docked, take the time to review your docking procedure and identify areas for improvement. Learn from your mistakes and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from more experienced boaters.
• Practise docking in different conditions to improve your skills. Docking in calm waters is very different from docking in strong winds or currents, so it's important to be prepared for a variety of scenarios.

Frequently asked questions