Locking Your Boat: Securing To A Dock Like A Pro

Learning how to lock a boat to a dock is a crucial skill for any boat owner. While boat theft is less common than auto theft, only 1 in 10 stolen boats are ever recovered, so it's important to take precautions. There are several methods to secure your boat, ranging from locking the cabin, doors, and windows to using adequate mooring techniques.

One common method is to use a length of cable or chain to secure the boat to the dock. This can be done by running the cable or chain from a pole on the dock to a cleat or lifting ring on the boat. Another option is to use a lock and chain to secure the boat to the dock cleats. Additionally, you can consider installing an alarm system on your boat, which can help deter thieves and alert you in case of any issues.

When securing your boat, it's important to use proper mooring techniques to prevent damage. This includes using fenders or bumpers to protect your boat from scratches and dents. It's also crucial to tie your boat securely, using appropriate knots such as the cleat knot and clove hitch, and ensuring that the ropes are not too tight to allow for the up-and-down movement of the tides.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can help keep your boat safe and secure when docked.

Use a sturdy lock

Using a sturdy lock is a great way to secure your boat to a dock. Here are some tips to help you do it effectively:

First, make sure you have the right type of lock. A good lock should be strong, durable, and tamper-proof. Consider using galvanized vinyl-coated cables or heavy-duty motorcycle locks, which are tough to cut through. You can also opt for padlocks to secure your cables or chains.

Next, decide where to place the lock. You can choose to lock the bow or the stern of your boat to the dock. Some people prefer locking the bow as it is more visible and might deter potential vandals. Others prefer locking the stern, making it less noticeable. Assess your docking situation and choose the option that makes you feel most secure.

When locking the boat, ensure you use a sturdy knot that cannot be easily undone. Consider using a simple cleat knot or a more complex cleat knot, depending on your preference and the level of security you desire. If the dock has pilings instead of cleats, you can use a clove knot to secure your boat.

Additionally, always keep your keys in a safe place, preferably away from the boat, to prevent unauthorized access. You may also want to invest in an alarm system for your boat, which can alert you or authorities in the event of tampering or theft.

Remember, while a sturdy lock is an excellent deterrent, it is not a guarantee against theft or vandalism. Taking additional security measures, such as proper docking procedures, insurance, and surveillance, can further enhance the security of your boat.

Check moorings are secure

Checking that your moorings are secure is an important step in locking your boat to a dock. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your moorings are secure:

Firstly, ensure that your boat is properly positioned alongside the dock. Your boat should be parallel to the dock, about 1-2 feet away. This will provide a stable base for securing your moorings.

Next, prepare your dock lines. Dock lines refer to the angle at which you'll tie the ropes to the dock from your boat. The recommended configuration is to use three dock lines: a bow line, a spring line, and a stern line. The bow line comes off the front of the boat, the spring line comes off the middle, and the stern line comes off the back. Each line should be tied to a cleat on the boat and then to a cleat on the dock.

When tying your dock lines, it is important to follow the correct order and to avoid right angles. Always start by tossing the spring line to someone on the dock so they can hold the boat in position. Then, tie the bow line to a dock cleat ahead of the bow. Next, tie the spring line at an angle away from the bow towards the stern. Finally, tie the stern line to a dock cleat behind the stern. All lines should be tied at a non-right angle to allow the boat to move with the waves.

To further secure your moorings, you can add extra spring lines or breast lines. Spring lines prevent forward and backward movement, while breast lines are short lines that keep the boat close to the dock for loading and unloading.

Finally, check your knots. A simple cleat knot is suitable for temporary securing or when the person on the dock is unfamiliar with complex knots. For longer stays, a complex cleat knot provides more security. If you are tying to a piling instead of a dock cleat, use a clove knot.

By following these steps and regularly inspecting your lines, you can ensure that your moorings are secure and your boat is safely locked to the dock.

Install an alarm system

Installing an alarm system is a great way to enhance the security of your boat and deter potential thieves. A boat alarm works on the same principle as a car alarm – it draws attention to any unauthorised presence around your boat and can alert you in time to take action.

There are a variety of boat alarms available on the market, each with different features to improve the security of your boat. Some alarms come with lock sensors, while others have camera equipment. Certain alarms can even shut down the boat's power systems in the event of a theft, or send you a text message alert through an app.

When choosing a boat alarm, consider your specific needs and the level of security you require. If you often leave your boat unattended for long periods, an alarm with remote notification capabilities can provide peace of mind. On the other hand, if you frequently sail in high-risk areas, an alarm with lock sensors and the ability to disable the boat might be a better option.

In addition to choosing the right alarm system, it is also important to take preventive measures to secure your boat. Always lock the cabin, doors, and windows of your boat when it is not in use, and keep the keys with you or in a safe place away from the boat. Regularly inspect your mooring lines and replace them if they appear worn.

Furthermore, consider investing in a boat lift, which elevates your boat above the waterline, making it more difficult for thieves to access. Taking these measures, along with installing an alarm system, can significantly improve the security of your boat and deter potential vandals and thieves.

Use a rope knife

A rope knife is one of the most important safety tools to have while locking your boat to a dock. It is critical to have a boat knife on your body and ready for use in an emergency, rather than stowed away in a drawer. This is in case your mooring lines get stuck, and you need to cut them to prevent long-term damage to your vessel.

When a boat is moving through a lock and the water level is changing, there is an opportunity for the vessel to get caught on the lines and stuck on the wall. In this scenario, you will need to cut the rope to prevent damage. Although this has not been the author's personal experience, they have heard several stories from other boaters and loopers about this happening.

The author of the source text recommends keeping your knife on your person and not locked away in storage. This ensures that you can access it quickly in an emergency.

When preparing to enter a lock, the first mate should get the vessel and crew ready. This includes putting out fenders, preparing lines, and ensuring that personal flotation devices are close by. The first mate should also have their own knife ready in case of emergency.

It is also important to stay attentive during the locking process. Watch your lines and fenders to avoid them getting caught. If your vessel is lowering in the lock and a line gets caught, it can cause the boat to hang on the wall, which is dangerous. Therefore, a rope knife is a crucial tool to have readily available when locking your boat to a dock.

Communicate with a lockmaster

Communicating with a lockmaster can be a daunting task, but it becomes second nature with practice. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to communicate with a lockmaster when locking a boat to a dock:

Step 1: Establish Contact

Before reaching the lock, ensure you make contact with the lockmaster. You can do this in several ways:

• Over a VHF radio: Monitor VHF channel 16, which is commonly used for lock communications, and dual-watch it with the locking channel.
• By pulling a signal chain or call button: Look for a signal chain or call button usually located at the lock entrance.

Step 2: State Your Intentions

When communicating with the lockmaster, clearly state your intentions. Inform them if you want to lock through as soon as possible, if you plan to lock through later, or if you want to inquire about current wait times. Remember, emergency and commercial vessels take priority over pleasure craft, so be prepared to wait if necessary.

Step 3: Provide Vessel Information

When contacting the lockmaster, provide details about your vessel. This includes information such as the name of your vessel ("motor vessel PIVOT" in the example below), its size or length, and your current location or distance from the lock. Here is an example communication:

You: " [Name of Lock], [Name of Lock], this is [motor vessel PIVOT], a 34-foot pleasure craft heading eastbound. We are approximately 1 mile away and would like to lock through at your earliest convenience."

Lockmaster: " [Name of Lock]"

You: "Thank you! We are hoping to lock through as soon as possible."

Step 4: Follow Instructions

Listen carefully to the lockmaster's instructions and follow them accordingly. They may provide you with a lock-through time or ask you to wait at a specific location, such as on a wall or a painted blue line near the lock. Maintain a positive attitude and be patient, as there may be other boats ahead of you or commercial traffic with locking priority.

Step 5: Monitor VHF Radio

Keep your VHF radio turned on and tuned to the appropriate channel to stay in communication with the lockmaster and other boats. This is crucial for receiving further instructions and ensuring a smooth locking process.

Frequently asked questions