Securely Tying Your Boat To A Floating Dock: A Guide

Learning how to tie a boat to a floating dock is a basic skill that every boat owner should know. It is important to understand how floating docks work and then use the right equipment and methods to secure your boat properly. Floating docks are flexible structures that change their position relative to the water level, making them suitable for areas with large tidal fluctuations. When tying up a boat to a floating dock, it is crucial to consider the water depth, wind and current, and ensure that all passengers wear life jackets during the docking process. The process involves securing the stern line first, followed by the bow line, and then adjusting the lines according to the current and wind conditions. Additionally, knowing how to tie different types of knots, such as the cleat hitch, clove hitch, and bowline knot, is essential for docking a boat safely and efficiently.

Prepare your boat for tying

Before you start the process of tying your boat to a floating dock, there are several steps you should take to ensure the safety of your boat and passengers, and to make the process as smooth as possible. Firstly, it is important to check that your boat has cleats on all sides. These are T-shaped metal hardware, usually made of galvanized metal, and are used to secure the dock lines. If your boat does not have cleats, you can purchase and install them yourself using thru-bolts with backing plates.

Next, you should prepare your dock lines by tying them to your boat cleats before you approach the dock. Ensure the ropes are organised and not tangled, as this can be time-consuming and unsafe to rectify while docking. You should also deploy your fenders, or bumpers, which are protective gear made from foam or rubber that act as a buffer between your boat and the dock.

Finally, as you approach the dock, assess its condition and ensure that it looks safe and that the dock's cleats or pilings are secure and able to withstand the weight of your boat.

Set up the dock lines

The first step is to prepare your boat for tying. Ensure that your boat cleats are secured and that you have a screwdriver on board to fasten the cleats in case any screws have loosened over time. It is also important to have your dock lines already tied to your boat's cleats before you approach the dock. Make sure the ropes are organised and not tangled, as this can be time-consuming and unsafe to rectify when docking. Finally, drop your bumpers down before docking so they are ready to absorb the impact.

As you approach the dock, assess the state of the dock itself. Check that it looks safe and that the dock's cleats or pilings are secure and can withstand your boat's weight.

There are three main dock lines used when tying one side of the boat to a dock: the bow line, the spring line, and the stern line. Alternatively, if you are docking your boat in a slip, with a dock on either side of the boat, you will use at least four dock lines: the port and starboard bow lines, and the port and starboard stern lines.

The dock lines refer to the angle at which you will tie the ropes to the dock from the boat. Generally, the spring line is thrown to someone on the dock first, so they can adjust the position of the boat and hold it in place while you tie the remaining lines.

The first line to tie to the dock is the bow line. Tie the bow line to one of the dock cleats that is ahead of the bow. Then, tie the spring line to the dock at an angle away from the bow and towards the stern, securing it to a cleat closest to the stern. This prevents the boat from moving forward and backward. Finally, tie the stern line to a dock cleat behind the stern, preferably as equidistant from the midship as the cleat to which the bow line is tied.

Every line should be tied at a non-right angle, as opposed to a 90-degree angle, from the boat to the dock. This allows the boat to move with the waves, which is safer than having your boat fight against a wake while it is docked.

Tie the dock lines

Now that you have prepared your boat and the dock for tying, it is time to tie the dock lines. The dock lines refer to the angle at which you’ll tie the ropes to the dock from the boat.

There are three main dock lines used when tying one side of the boat to a dock: the bow line, the spring line, and the stern line. Alternatively, if you’re docking your boat in a slip — where a dock is on either side of the boat — you can secure your boat from both sides. In this case, you’ll use at least four dock lines — the port and starboard bow lines and the port and starboard stern lines.

The first line to tie to the dock is the bow line. Tie the bow line of the boat to one of the dock cleats that’s ahead of the bow.

Next, you will need to tie the spring line. This is the line that comes off either the port or starboard side of a boat cleat and is positioned somewhere between the bow and the stern. Tie the spring line to the dock at an angle away from the bow and toward the stern, securing it to a cleat closest to the stern. This prevents the boat from moving forward and backward.

Finally, tie the stern line to a dock cleat that’s behind the stern — preferably as equidistant from the midship as the cleat to which the bow line is tied.

Every line should be tied at a non-right angle as opposed to a 90-degree angle from the boat to the dock. Having every line angled allows for the boat to move with the waves, which is always safer than having your boat fight against a wake while it’s docked.

Types of knots to use

Knowing how to properly tie a knot is essential to the safety and security of your boat. Boat tying knots are designed for strength and speed, allowing you to quickly tie and untie your knot without snags.

The simple cleat knot is the easiest to learn. To tie it:

• Start by making a loop with your rope and feed the loop through the cleat.
• Grab the loop from the other side of the cleat and spread the loop so that it wraps around the cleat’s horns.
• Tug on the rope’s tails to tighten the loop to the cleat.

The complex cleat knot is the preferred knot for longer-term stays and added safety and security. To tie it:

• Start by looping the rope around one side of the cleat from the bottom.
• Cross the rope over the top of the cleat to the opposite side.
• Loop the rope over the first side of the cleat a second time.
• Cross the rope over the other side of the cleat a final time, tucking the tail between the top two layers of rope.

The clove knot is used when there are pilings instead of cleats. To tie it:

• Wrap the line around the pole.
• Wrap the line around the pole a second time, crossing the rope over itself once.
• Feed the tail end through the wrapped line, tugging it tightly.

Types of knots to use

When tying up a boat to a floating dock, there are several types of knots that can be used. Here are some of the most commonly used knots and their advantages:

Cleat Hitch:

The cleat hitch is a simple and effective knot for securing a boat to a dock. It involves taking the line around the base of the cleat and finishing with a half hitch to lock it in place. This knot is easy to tie and undo, making it a popular choice for maritime practices. Its reliability and simplicity have made it a standard procedure for docking situations.

Bowline Knot:

The bowline knot is preferred for docking as it creates a fixed loop that cannot move, even under tension. This type of loop is ideal for connecting to a dock's piling or cleat, especially with stationary docks. Additionally, the bowline knot is easy to make and release, making it useful when adjustments or quick releases are necessary.

Clove Hitch:

The clove hitch is useful when frequent changes to the length of the rope are required. It is created by placing the rope around the cleat or piling in a crossing pattern and then tucking the end under the last turn. The clove hitch is easy to tie and release, especially under load, making it suitable for temporary mooring or conditions with frequent adjustments. However, it is not as stable as the bowline or cleat hitch and requires frequent checks if used for extended periods.

Complex Cleat Knot:

For longer stays at the dock or for added security, the complex cleat knot is a good option. This knot involves creating one-and-a-half figure eights wrapped around the cleat, providing more security than the simple cleat knot. It is important to pull the rope tightly at each step to ensure a secure fastening.

Considerations to keep in mind

There are several factors to consider when tying your boat to a floating dock. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Weather Conditions: Keep a close eye on the wind speed and direction. If there is a strong wind blowing towards the dock, angle your boat slightly away from the dock to avoid being pushed against it. On the other hand, if the wind is moving away from the dock, tie your boat more parallel to the structure. Regularly check on your boat, especially if the weather is unpredictable, to adjust to changing conditions.
• Tide Changes: Always refer to a tide chart to be aware of rising or receding water levels. Ensure you have enough slack in your lines to accommodate these changes. Consider choosing docking spaces that are farther from the shoreline if you anticipate significant tide fluctuations, especially for larger boats.
• Length of Stay: The duration of your stay will influence the number and type of dock lines you use. For shorter stays, you can tie up according to the current conditions. However, for longer stays, consider adding an extra spring or breast line for increased security.
• Water Body: The type of water body you're docking on matters. Ocean boating usually demands more attention to tide changes, while lake boating presents lower risks of fluctuating water levels.
• Angling the Boat: Consider angling your boat at a slight angle to the dock, rather than keeping it perfectly parallel. This allows for more movement through the water and reduces the risk of colliding with the dock during sudden waves or wakes.
• Regular Line Inspection: Before embarking on your journey, inspect your lines for any signs of severe fraying, abrasions, cuts, or other damage. Exposure to the elements can weaken your ropes over time, so it's essential to replace them regularly to avoid line snaps when your boat is tied up.
• Safety First: Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) while tying up your boat, and if you have a crew, ensure everyone follows clear instructions. Take your time during the process, but in case of an emergency, act swiftly and decisively.

Frequently asked questions