Maneuvering A Twin-Engine Boat: Tips And Techniques

Maneuvering a twin-engine boat can be a challenging task, especially for those new to boating. While twin-engine boats offer improved maneuverability and performance compared to their single-engine counterparts, understanding the basics of controlling these vessels is crucial to avoid accidents and ensure a smooth sailing experience. This paragraph aims to provide an introduction to the complex topic of maneuvering twin-engine boats, covering various techniques, challenges, and best practices to help boaters confidently take control of their vessels.

When to use the wheel

There is conflicting advice on whether to use the wheel when docking a twin-engine boat. Some sources suggest that you should not use the wheel when docking, as it can make docking more difficult. Instead, you should use the shifters to steer the boat. This is because, when docking, you are moving at slow speeds, and the rudders are of little to no help at these speeds.

However, other sources suggest that you can use the wheel when docking, but it depends on the type of boat you are driving. For example, if you are docking a twin inboard boat, it is better not to use the wheel, as this can overload the captain's brain, making it difficult to synchronise the throttles and control the boat effectively. On the other hand, if you are docking a twin sterndrive boat, you can use the wheel, but this will result in a larger turning radius and faster advancement than if you were just using the shifters.

When performing manoeuvres other than docking, such as turning in open water, it is generally recommended to use the wheel in combination with the shifters and throttles to control the direction and speed of the boat. When turning a twin-engine boat, it is best to have the running motor on the outside of the turn, as this will allow for a tighter turn. Additionally, when turning the wheel, it is important to make each turn count to reduce the number of times you have to turn the wheel from hard over to hard over, as turning the wheel can be difficult if the motor with the power steering pump dies.

How to dock with one engine

Docking a twin-engine boat with one engine can be a tricky manoeuvre, but with practice, it can be mastered. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Preparation:

Before you begin the docking process, it is crucial to prepare your boat and yourself. Ensure you have deployed fenders and lines as needed and assessed the wind and current conditions to anticipate any potential challenges they may pose.

Trim Your Engines:

Use the tilt-trim switch at the throttle to trim your engines slightly upward. This adjustment will ensure that the propwash goes under the boat, where it will have the most effect. If not trimmed correctly, the propwash may hit the transom, making the boat more difficult to handle.

Approach the Dock:

As you approach the dock, maintain a 90-degree angle. When the middle of your boat aligns with the middle of the slip, stop and centre your steering wheel. This position is crucial for the upcoming turn.

Turn the Boat:

From this point onward, it is easiest to turn the boat by opposing the engines. Shift one engine into forward and the other into reverse. Resist the temptation to touch the steering wheel, and rely solely on the engines for manoeuvring. This technique will cause the boat to spin in place.

Control the Spin:

Remember that the bow will move in the direction of the throttle shifted into reverse. For example, shifting the starboard throttle into forward and the port throttle into reverse will cause the bow to spin to port. Fine-tune your spin by adjusting the throttles as needed.

Manage Constraints:

In an ideal scenario, you would have ample space to spin the boat until it is perfectly parallel with the finger pier. However, space constraints may require you to adjust your technique. If you cannot spin the boat completely, remove all forward thrust by taking the forward throttle out of gear. This action will cause the boat to begin backing up while continuing to spin, allowing you to get closer to the slip and create more room to swing the bow.

Final Adjustments:

As the boat moves into the slip, you can make any necessary final adjustments. Reverse both throttles briefly to stop the spinning motion, and then back slowly into the slip, coming to rest at its side. If the bow is not aligned correctly, make light adjustments by shifting starboard reverse or port forward to bring the boat alongside the dock.

Remember that docking with one engine can be a challenging manoeuvre, and it is essential to stay calm and make adjustments as needed. With practice, you will become more comfortable with the process and be docking with ease.

Docking twin inboards vs sterndrives/outboards

Docking a twin-engine boat can be a tricky endeavour, but with some practice and the right preparation, it can be done with ease. Here, we will explore the differences in docking procedures for twin inboards, sterndrives/outboards, and provide a step-by-step guide to help you master the process.

Twin Inboards vs Sterndrives/Outboards

Inboard propulsion systems are popular for water sports due to the small, clean wake created by the propeller's position underwater. They are also relatively easier to repair and service compared to sterndrives and outboards. Inboards have two variations: direct drive and V-drive. Direct drives have better weight distribution and minimal power loss compared to V-drives, but they take up more space in the boat's centre.

On the other hand, sterndrives (or inboard/outboards) combine the torque of an inboard engine with the manoeuvrability of an outboard motor. They offer the advantage of trimming the lower unit and provide more seating space. However, the continuous exposure to water can damage the lower unit.

Outboards are all-in-one units attached to the rear of the boat, and they can be lifted out of the water for access to shallow areas. They are easy to work on since the engine is exposed, and they don't require extensive winterisation. However, they may be noisier and have less power and torque than inboards and sterndrives.

Step-by-Step Guide to Docking a Twin-Engine Boat

Now, let's focus on the docking process for twin-engine boats, which can be more manageable than single-engine boats due to the ability to oppose the engines. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Prepare for Docking: Before approaching the slip, deploy fenders and lines as needed. Also, check for wind and current conditions to anticipate their effects on your manoeuvring.
• Trim Your Engines: Slightly trim up your engines using the tilt-trim switch so that the propwash goes under the boat, making it easier to control.
• Approach the Slip: As you approach the slip at a 90-degree angle, once the middle of your boat aligns with the middle of the slip, stop and centre your steering wheel.
• Oppose the Engines: To turn the boat, shift one engine into forward and the other into reverse. This will cause the boat to spin. Remember, the bow will move in the direction of the throttle shifted into reverse.
• Adjust and Manoeuvre: Depending on the space available, you may need to adjust the engines accordingly. If there are constraints, take the forward throttle out of gear to reduce spinning and allow the boat to back up while continuing to spin.
• Final Adjustments: As the boat moves into the slip, reverse both throttles briefly to stop any spinning motion. Then, back slowly into the slip, making any final adjustments as needed to align the boat alongside the slip.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Take the time to learn your boat's handling characteristics and get comfortable with the process in a safe, open area before attempting to dock in tighter spaces.

Manoeuvring with twin stern drives

Twin engine boats offer more control than single engine boats, allowing you to push or pull from both corners at the stern. This makes it easier to manoeuvre in a straight line, perform standing turns, or make small directional changes without using the wheel. Stern drives are an articulating steering system, meaning the wheel turns the twin drives which redirect thrust. However, unlike an outboard, you can't see them from the helm, so it's important to pay attention to the steering wheel when docking and for close-quarters manoeuvring.

When manoeuvring with twin stern drives, you have the option to use the wheel or just the shifters. Using the wheel will make things happen more quickly, while working with the shifters alone will slow things down. In calm conditions, it's recommended to use the shifters alone with a centred wheel. Use short shifts and allow some drifting in neutral to control momentum.

To learn the steering characteristics of your twin stern drive boat, take it to safe water and bring it to a stop in calm conditions. Then, shift the port drive into reverse with no throttle and observe whether the stern moves to starboard. Repeat this process for the starboard drive. You can also try the same tests using a forward shift in relation to the bow. If one drive understeers, compensate by shifting the other drive in the opposite direction. This technique is known as a "bulldozer" shift.

When docking a twin stern drive boat, the ARC method is recommended by some experts. This method involves using counterthrust, with one engine in forward and the other in reverse, to spin the boat 360 degrees within its own length. This technique provides more control when manoeuvring in tight quarters in a marina or when docking.

It's important to familiarise yourself with your boat's handling characteristics and practice manoeuvring in a safe, open area before attempting to dock or navigate in close quarters.

How to dock a twin outboard boat

Docking a twin-engine boat can seem intimidating, especially if you're new to boating. But with a bit of preparation and practice, you'll be docking like a pro in no time. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Prepare for Docking

Before you even approach the dock, there are a few things you should do to make the process smoother. First, deploy fenders and lines as necessary to protect your boat and secure it in place once you've docked. Next, check for wind and current conditions so you can anticipate any challenges they might pose during the docking process.

Trim Your Engines

As you get closer to the dock, trim your engines up slightly using the tilt-trim switch at the throttle. This will ensure that the propwash goes under the boat, where it has the greatest effect. If you don't do this, the propwash may hit the transom, making it harder to manoeuvre the boat.

Approach the Dock

When approaching the slip, maintain a 90-degree angle. Once the middle of your boat is even with the middle of the slip, stop and centre your steering wheel. From this point on, it's best to turn the boat by opposing the engines (shifting one into forward and the other into reverse), rather than using the steering wheel.

Spin the Boat

Now, it's time to get the boat spinning. Remember, the bow will move in the direction of the throttle you shift into reverse. For example, if you shift the starboard throttle into forward and the port throttle into reverse, the bow will spin to port. In ideal conditions, you'll be able to spin the boat until it's perfectly parallel with the finger pier, and then it's just a matter of shifting both engines into reverse idle and backing up.

Handle Constraints

In reality, you may encounter space constraints that prevent you from spinning the boat completely. In this case, after the boat starts to turn, you can take the forward throttle out of gear to remove all forward thrust. This will cause the boat to start backing up as it continues to spin, allowing you to get it closer to the slip. Just remember that when you remove the forward throttle, the rate of spin will decrease, so you'll need to shift in and out of gear to balance between backing up and spinning.

Final Adjustments

As you move into the slip, you can reverse both throttles briefly to stop any spinning motion. Then, back slowly into the slip, coming to rest at the side. If the bow is not quite aligned, you may need to make some final adjustments by shifting starboard reverse, port forward, or vice versa, with a light thrust.

Troubleshooting

Even with preparation and practice, unexpected challenges can arise during docking. If a gust of wind knocks the boat off course or you misjudge the current, don't panic. Depending on the situation, you may be able to apply more or less power to one outboard to correct your course. If things get too tricky, don't be afraid to start over. Pull away from the slip and try again—it's a manoeuvre that even experienced mariners have had to do!

Frequently asked questions