Parking Twin-Engine Boats: Slipway Techniques

Parking a twin-engine boat in a slip can be a challenging task, especially for those new to boating. While it may seem intimidating at first, with the right techniques and practice, anyone can master this skill. The key to successfully docking a twin-engine boat is to understand how to use the engines and throttles to manoeuvre the boat precisely. By opposing the engines, putting one into forward and the other into reverse, the boat can spin in place, making it easier to park in narrow spaces. Additionally, practising in calm waters and taking into account wind and current directions are crucial steps to perfecting the art of twin-engine boat parking.

How to Park a Twin-Engine Boat in a Slip

Prepare for docking by deploying fenders and lines, and checking for wind and current

Preparing for docking is a critical step in the process of parking a twin-engine boat in a slip. Here are some detailed instructions to help you get ready for a smooth docking experience:

Deploying Fenders and Lines:

Before approaching the slip, it is essential to deploy fenders and lines as a precautionary measure. Fenders are crucial for protecting both your boat and the dock from potential damage during the docking process. Place the fenders on the side of the boat that will be facing the dock to create a protective barrier. Additionally, have your dock lines ready for use. These lines will be used to secure your boat once it is in position. Ensure your crew is prepared to act quickly and secure the boat to the dock.

Checking for Wind and Current:

Understanding the impact of wind and current is vital for a successful docking manoeuvre. Assess the direction and strength of the wind and current before your approach. This information will help you plan and make any necessary adjustments during the docking process. Observe indicators such as flags, smoke, or water movement to gauge wind direction and strength. For current direction and strength, observe the water movement or use a current meter. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure a more controlled and safe docking experience.

Approaching the Slip:

As you approach the slip, maintain an extremely low speed. Ideally, your speed should be just above the idle level, giving you maximum control over the boat. When you are about 100 feet away from the slip, cut the engine to neutral and rely on the slow momentum you've built up to sail the rest of the way. Remember to turn the wheel hard towards the slip as you get closer, as the boat will react slower at this reduced speed. Keep your hand on the throttle for any last-minute adjustments.

By following these detailed instructions for deploying fenders and lines, checking wind and current conditions, and approaching the slip with caution, you will be well-prepared for a smooth and controlled docking experience when parking your twin-engine boat.

Trim your engines up slightly so the propwash goes under the boat

When parking a twin-engine boat in a slip, it is important to trim your engines up slightly so that the propwash goes under the boat. This can be done by using the tilt-trim switch at the throttle. If the propwash hits the transom, it will make the boat harder to manoeuvre. By trimming the engines, the propwash will go under the boat where it has the greatest effect, making it easier to control and park the boat.

Trimming the engines is a crucial step in the process of docking a twin-engine boat. It ensures that the boat can be effectively manoeuvred into the slip without difficulty. This technique is especially useful when dealing with wind and current conditions that may impact the boat's trajectory. By directing the propwash under the boat, boaters can take advantage of the additional "bite" on the water provided by the twin-engine setup.

It is important to note that the process of trimming the engines may vary slightly depending on the specific model and type of twin-engine boat. Each boat has unique handling characteristics, and it is essential to familiarise oneself with the boat's behaviour in different conditions. Practising in open water and safe conditions can help boaters develop a better understanding of their boat's performance and improve their docking skills.

Additionally, when approaching the slip, it is recommended to maintain a 90-degree angle and centre the steering wheel once the middle of the boat is aligned with the middle of the slip. From this point onwards, it is easiest to turn the boat by opposing the engines, shifting one into forward and the other into reverse. This technique allows for precise control and makes docking the twin-engine boat a more manageable task.

In conclusion, trimming the engines up slightly on a twin-engine boat when docking is a crucial step that enhances manoeuvrability and control. By ensuring that the propwash goes under the boat, boaters can take advantage of the increased "bite" on the water and effectively park their boat in a slip, even in challenging wind and current conditions.

Approach the slip at a 90-degree angle, then centre your steering wheel

Approaching the slip at a 90-degree angle is a good way to dock a twin-engine boat. This method is easier than docking a single-engine boat, as you have more control over the boat's movement. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare for Docking

Before you approach the slip, make sure you have deployed fenders and lines as necessary. Check for wind and current conditions so you can anticipate their effects and adjust your approach accordingly.

Step 2: Trim Your Engines

Trim your engines slightly upwards using the tilt-trim switch at the throttle. This ensures that the propwash goes under the boat, providing greater manoeuvrability. If you skip this step, the propwash may hit the transom, making it harder to steer.

Step 3: Approach the Slip at a 90-Degree Angle

Steer your boat so that it approaches the slip at a 90-degree angle. This angle sets you up for a smooth turn into the slip.

Step 4: Centre Your Steering Wheel

Once the middle of your boat is aligned with the middle of the slip, stop your forward movement and centre your steering wheel. This is a crucial step as it sets you up for the turn without relying on the steering wheel.

Step 5: Oppose the Engines

From this position, you can easily turn the boat by opposing the engines. Shift one engine into forward and the other into reverse. This will cause the boat to spin in place. Remember not to touch the steering wheel during this step, as you want to rely solely on the engines for manoeuvring.

Step 6: Adjust Throttle for Desired Direction

When opposing the engines, keep in mind that the bow will move in the direction of the throttle you shift into reverse. For example, shifting the starboard throttle into forward and the port throttle into reverse will cause the bow to spin to port.

By following these steps, you can smoothly turn your twin-engine boat into the slip. Remember to always approach docking situations with calmness and precision. Practise these techniques to improve your boat-handling skills and gain confidence in docking your boat.

Oppose the engines to get the boat spinning

Opposing the engines is a great way to get a twin-engine boat to spin in place, making it easier to park in a slip. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, it's important to prepare for the docking manoeuvre by deploying fenders and lines, and checking for wind and current conditions. You don't want these elements to catch you by surprise. Trim your engines up slightly using the tilt-trim switch at the throttle, so the propwash goes under the boat where it has the most effect.

Now, approach the slip at 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 here, it's easiest to turn the boat by opposing the engines. Shift one engine into forward and the other into reverse. It's best not to touch the steering wheel and to use only the engines for manoeuvring.

Now, to get the boat spinning, remember that the bow will move in the direction of the throttle you shift into reverse. So, if you shift the starboard throttle into forward and the port throttle into reverse, the bow will spin to port. You can also do the reverse to spin the boat to starboard.

If you have the space, you can spin the boat until it's perfectly parallel with the finger pier. Then, getting into the slip is simply a matter of shifting both engines into reverse idle and backing up. However, if space is tight, you may need to adjust your technique. After the boat begins to turn, take the forward throttle out of gear to remove all forward thrust. The boat will then start backing up as it continues to spin, and you can get it very close to the slip. Remember, when you pull the forward throttle out of gear, the rate at which the boat is spinning will be reduced, so you'll need to shift in and out of gear to balance backing up and spinning.

As the boat moves into the slip, you can reverse both throttles briefly to stop all spinning motion, then back slowly into the slip. If the bow is not aligned correctly, you can make a light adjustment by shifting starboard reverse, port forward, or vice versa.

With practice, you'll be able to comfortably oppose the engines to spin your twin-engine boat and park it into a slip with ease.

Adjust the throttles to control the direction of the bow

Adjusting the throttles is key to controlling the direction of the bow when parking a twin-engine boat in a slip. Here are some detailed instructions to help you master this skill:

Firstly, it's important to prepare for the docking manoeuvre in advance. Deploy fenders and lines, and be mindful of wind and water current conditions that might affect your approach.

As you approach the slip, trim your engines slightly using the tilt-trim switch at the throttle. This ensures that the propwash goes under the boat, giving you greater control. Keep your approach speed low, just above idle, as this gives you more control over the boat.

When you reach the slip, approach it at a 90-degree angle. Once the middle of your boat is aligned with the middle of the slip, stop and centre your steering wheel. Now, you can begin to turn the boat by shifting one engine into forward and the other into reverse. It's best not to touch the steering wheel during this step, relying solely on the engines for manoeuvring.

Here's the crucial part: to make the bow move in your desired direction, adjust the throttles accordingly. For example, shifting the starboard throttle into forward and the port throttle into reverse will cause the bow to spin to port. Conversely, shifting the port throttle into forward and the starboard throttle into reverse will spin the bow to starboard.

By adjusting the throttles in this way, you can control the direction in which the bow spins, making it easier to align with the slip. Fine-tune your adjustments as needed to guide the boat smoothly into the slip.

Remember, docking a twin-engine boat can be intimidating at first, but with practice and a good understanding of throttle control, you'll be able to park with precision and ease.

Frequently asked questions