Pulling Away: Techniques For Moving Your Boat From The Dock

Pulling a boat away from the dock can be a complicated manoeuvre, and there are several methods to do so. One of the most important things to consider before embarking is whether your crew is able to help and whether they know what they're doing. It's crucial to give clear directions ahead of time to ensure everyone is on the same page. When pulling away from the dock, you'll need to untie the lines from the bow and stern and move the stern of the boat away from the dock. It's also important to be aware of your surroundings, including the wind direction, current, and other boaters. If the wind or current is pushing you away from the dock, the process is straightforward: simply cast off the lines and let the wind blow you away. On the other hand, if the wind or current is pushing you towards the dock, you'll need to do some extra planning and make a steeper approach.

Prepare your crew: Ensure they know what to do and that they're comfortable with equipment like boat hooks

When preparing your crew to pull a boat away from the dock, it's essential to ensure they are well-versed in the process and comfortable with equipment such as boat hooks. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your crew is ready:

Know Your Boat and the Docking Process

Start by ensuring your crew understands how your boat handles. This includes knowing how it pivots when turning and its tendencies when approaching a dock. Practice approaching a buoy or crab pot marker as if it were a dock to get a feel for the boat's movement. Emphasize the importance of not assuming prior knowledge, as each boat can handle differently.

Understand the Role of the Boat Hook

The boat hook is a versatile tool with various uses, such as docking, mooring, retrieving objects, or fending off other boats. Demonstrate to your crew how to properly grip the boat hook: one hand near the hook or blunt end and the other closer to the middle for stability and control. Show them how to use the boat hook to assist in docking by extending it towards the dock and aiming for secure points like cleats or rings. They should then gently apply pressure to secure the hook and use it as leverage to guide the boat.

Practice with the Boat Hook

Before attempting to pull away from the dock, ensure your crew has practiced with the boat hook. They should understand its reach, balance, and limitations. Emphasize the importance of coordination and communication when using the boat hook to avoid accidents. Additionally, they should be aware of their surroundings to prevent striking other boats, objects, or people.

Check Equipment and Secure Docking Lines

As part of the preparation process, your crew should check that all necessary equipment is on board and in good condition. This includes ensuring one end of the docking lines is secured on board, having fenders ready, and knowing the number of fenders needed (usually at least three). It's also crucial to check that the boat hooks are properly secured when not in use to prevent them from falling overboard.

Understand Wind and Current Conditions

Teach your crew to always consider wind and current conditions when preparing to pull away from the dock. If the wind or current is pushing the boat toward the dock, they will need to adjust their approach angle to maintain control and avoid striking the dock. On the other hand, if the wind or current is blowing away from the dock, they can take advantage of it to assist in pulling away.

Final Approach and Docking

Instruct your crew on the final steps of the approach and docking process. This includes reducing speed as they get closer to the dock, keeping an eye out for traffic, and being prepared to make adjustments if necessary, especially in busy marinas. Demonstrate how to put the boat in neutral when about 20 yards out and how to use short engine bursts to fine-tune their position.

By following these instructions and ensuring your crew is comfortable with the equipment and process, you can confidently prepare them to pull your boat away from the dock efficiently and safely.

Secure lines: Before approaching the dock, secure one end of your docking lines on board

Securing your boat to a dock is a critical skill for boat owners. Before approaching the dock, it is essential to secure one end of your docking lines on board. Here are some detailed instructions to help you securely tie your boat to the dock:

Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of docking lines. The most common types are bow lines (at the front of the boat), stern lines (at the back), and spring lines (preventing forward and backward movement). The positioning of these lines is crucial for ensuring your boat remains stable.

As you prepare to approach the dock, ensure you have the necessary lines ready. The number of lines required depends on the length of your stay. For a short stay, you will typically need three lines: a bow line, a stern line, and a spring line. For a longer stay, you may require two forward and two aft lines.

When securing your lines, it is recommended to use a weather hitch knot, also known as a cleat hitch. This involves wrapping the line around the base of the cleat, then crossing it over the top and wrapping it under the opposite side. Repeat this process, creating a figure-eight pattern. Finally, form a loop and slip it over the cleat horn to secure the line.

It is crucial to allow some slack in your lines to accommodate changes in tide, boat wake, or wind. However, too much slack can cause your boat to drift, potentially leading to a collision. Therefore, regular checks and adjustments are necessary, especially during changing weather or water conditions.

Additionally, pay attention to the condition of your lines. Replace any frayed or damaged lines immediately to prevent unexpected failures. By following these instructions, you can confidently secure your boat to the dock, ensuring its safety and stability.

Reduce speed: Slow down as you approach the dock and be mindful of other boats and traffic

Reducing speed is an important part of pulling a boat away from the dock. Approaching the dock slowly and carefully is crucial for safety and to avoid damage to the boat or the dock. Here are some detailed instructions on how to reduce speed when approaching a dock:

First, it is important to start preparing for docking well before you reach the dock. Have a clear plan in mind, including the duties of any crew members on board. At around 100 yards out from the dock, you should start to throttle back to a slow speed. This is especially important if you are heading into a busy marina with a lot of boat traffic. Keep in mind that a longer approach gives you more time to make adjustments and plan ahead.

As you get closer to the dock, continue to maintain a slow speed. When you are about 20 yards out, put the boat in neutral. Any adjustments from this point onwards need to be very precise and controlled. Keep your RPMs below 900 to maintain a reasonable amount of control over the boat. Too much speed can cause you to lose control and hit the dock, while too little speed can result in a lack of control.

Use short bursts of power at just the right times to fine-tune your approach. Bump the engine into gear for a moment to make adjustments, then go back to neutral. This technique is known as "controlled coasting" and is a key part of docking successfully. Visualize what's happening under the water—at slow speeds, there is less discharge from the propeller, and minimal water flow past the rudders, which affects steering.

If you have twin engines, use only one engine at a time to creep in slowly. This will give you more control and precision during your approach. Remember, never approach a dock any faster than you are willing to hit it!

Additionally, be mindful of other boats and traffic in the area. Keep an eye out for their movements and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly. If the marina is busy, you may need to change your speed or timing to avoid collisions or disruptions.

Onshore wind approach: Work with the wind when docking; a longer approach is better

When docking a boat, it is important to work with the wind and the current. If the wind is blowing towards the dock, this is known as an onshore wind. The current can either work against the wind, slowing you down, or work with the wind, pushing you along. In general, a longer approach is better as it gives you more time to make adjustments and plan ahead.

When docking with an onshore wind, you should approach the dock slowly and parallel to it. The wind will blow your boat towards the dock, so you can let the wind carry you in. If you need to adjust your position, shift into gear briefly. Keep your speed low and your RPMs below 900 to ensure you have a reasonable amount of control over the boat.

When you are about 20 yards out, put the boat in neutral and make any final adjustments very carefully. Control your speed to control your docking—you don't want to risk losing control and hitting the dock. Make short burst adjustments with your engine to get into position. Once you are in position, bring the boat parallel to the dock with the wind behind you. Forward and reverse at a low throttle in quick bursts to make fine adjustments.

When you are happy with your position, motor forward slightly and secure your bow, stern, and spring lines.

Multi-engine docking: If you have multiple engines, tweak your approach by leaving the wheel central and using outermost engines for manoeuvring

Docking a boat with multiple engines requires a slightly different approach compared to a single-engine boat. Here are some detailed instructions for multi-engine docking:

Firstly, it is important to understand the basics of boat handling with multiple engines. The key difference is that you can manoeuvre more effectively by putting one engine in forward and the other in reverse, allowing the boat to pivot. This technique gives you greater control, especially during slow-speed docking manoeuvres.

When docking with multiple engines, leave the wheel central and focus on using the outermost engines for manoeuvring. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Approach the dock slowly: Always maintain a safe speed when approaching the dock. Go slow enough that you are comfortable with hitting the dock at that speed. This gives you more control and reduces the risk of collision.
• Gauge wind and current: Be mindful of the wind and current conditions. They can impact your docking procedure, either helping or hindering your approach. Try to manoeuvre with the bow of the boat facing the wind or current as much as possible.
• Position your boat: Drive up close to your intended slip or berth, and position your boat to enter it. Remember to account for wind and current when positioning, as they can push you off course.
• Slow down and stop forward momentum: As you get closer to the dock, slow down or stop your forward momentum to avoid approaching too fast. You can always add more power if needed, but it's crucial to maintain a safe speed.
• Use intermittent power: During the final approach, use small bursts of power from the engines to manoeuvre into the berth or slip. This technique allows for precise adjustments and helps you avoid abrupt movements.
• Stop all motion: Once you are in position, use a small application of power to bring the boat to a complete stop. You can also use a dock line or spring line to assist in stopping forward movement if needed.
• Secure the boat: After you have stopped all motion, secure the boat in its berth or slip using mooring lines. Ensure that your boat is properly tied off and won't drift or collide with other boats or structures.

Remember that docking with multiple engines gives you more flexibility and control compared to a single-engine boat. Take advantage of this by practising docking in different conditions to improve your skills and gain confidence.

Frequently asked questions