Key Features To Look For In A Boat Dock

Docking a boat can be a stressful experience, even for seasoned boaters. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be a breeze. Here are some key things to look out for when docking your boat:

- Know the type of dock: Familiarize yourself with the two most common types of docks: a boat slip, which is like a designated parking space, and a boat dock or end tie slip, which is usually T-shaped.

- Prepare your boat: Ensure your fenders are at the optimal height and adjust your bow and stern lines before approaching the dock.

- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the wind, current, water conditions, and other boats around you. This will help you navigate and manoeuvre your boat effectively.

- Approach slowly: Never approach the dock faster than you are willing to hit it. Take your time and proceed slowly to avoid any mishaps.

- Tie up securely: Once you've reached the dock, tie your boat using common boating knots like the cleat hitch, clove hitch, or bowline.

- Keep the engine running: Keep the engine on while tying off your boat. This allows you to quickly respond if your boat starts to drift due to wind or current.

Types of boat docks

Boat docks can be broadly categorized into two main types: fixed and removable. Fixed docks are permanent structures securely anchored to the shoreline or pilings driven into the waterbed. Removable docks, on the other hand, offer flexibility and are ideal for areas with fluctuating water levels or deep waters. Here are some of the most common types of boat docks:

• Pile docks: These sturdy docks are similar to those found at larger piers. They are fixed to the water's bottom via large concrete or steel pilings and can bear significant weight. While the foundation is typically made of steel or concrete, the top level can be wood for a more pleasing aesthetic. Pile docks are costly and don't adjust well to wildly fluctuating water levels.
• Fixed docks: These usually have a structure attached to them, such as a gazebo, and are fixed to the bottom of the water. They are not suitable for areas with very high water levels due to their fixed height.
• Crib docks: Crib docks consist of a wooden frame filled with rocks to weigh them down and keep them stable in the water. While they provide stability, crib docks restrict water movement, which can negatively impact marine habitats. Some places ban these docks due to their adverse effects on wildlife and water flow.
• Suspension docks: Similar to suspension bridges, these docks float over the water via a set of powerful cables. They are sturdy but can be expensive and time-consuming to build and repair. However, they are more environmentally friendly than crib docks as water can pass easily beneath them.
• Floating docks: Floating docks are connected and secured to the land but float on the water using airtight drums. The materials used for these docks include buoyant foam, plastic, or a combination of these with wood. They are removable, relatively inexpensive, and easy to install. However, they are not suitable for areas with rocky or unpredictable water.
• Pipe docks: Pipe docks are similar to piling docks but use aluminum poles instead of stronger materials like steel or wood. They are removable, which is beneficial in cold climates to prevent freezing. However, they are less sturdy and may be damaged by strong weather or waves.
• Lift-up docks: These docks have a galvanized steel frame and a lift function to protect them from cold weather damage. They can be customized with designs to camouflage the steel's cold appearance.

Preparing dock lines and fenders

Firstly, you should prepare your dock lines. These are also known as mooring lines and can be used as bow, stern, spring, and breast lines. In most cases, you will only need to use your bow and stern lines. You should have these lines ready to throw or grab as soon as you are close to the dock.

Next, you should prepare your fenders. Fenders, also known as "bumpers", are used to protect both the dock and the boat from damage. Ideally, your fenders should be hovering right above the waterline, not touching the water. You should adjust the height of your fenders according to the pier. If your fenders are not at the right height, your boat might hit the dock directly.

Once you have prepared your dock lines and fenders, you should be ready to approach the dock. Remember to take it slow and steady, and never approach the dock faster than you would be willing to hit it.

Approaching the dock

Prepare Your Boat

Before you even begin to approach the dock, there are several things you should do to prepare your boat. First, make sure your fenders are at the correct height for the pier and boat so that they meet the dock when you arrive. You should also adjust the bow and stern lines attached to the boat cleats, so they are in the correct position when it is time to tie up. If your vessel has gates, open them to improve visibility. You should also prepare your docking lines and have them ready to tie off as soon as you are close to the dock.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It is important to familiarise yourself with the area and conditions you will be boating in. Check for other boats and make sure you have enough space to manoeuvre your boat. Ask yourself if you have enough open area if you need to turn the boat around, and what path you will take if you need to do so. You should also factor in the current and wind conditions, as these will impact how you approach the dock.

Approach the Dock Slowly and Carefully

When approaching the dock, do so slowly and carefully. Never approach the dock faster than you would be okay with hitting it. As you get closer, adjust your boat so you can approach at a 45-degree angle. When you are close, put the boat in reverse and readjust so that your engine is facing the dock. Then, reverse again until you have positioned the stern towards the dock.

Tie Up to the Dock

Once you have reached the dock, it is time to secure your vessel. Do this by affixing your bow and stern lines to the pier. The type of knot you will use will depend on the pier and where you are fastening the lines. Remember to put the boat in neutral when exiting the helm. It can be helpful to keep the engine running while you tie off your lines, as this will allow you to respond quickly if your boat starts to drift.

Docking techniques

Docking a boat can be a stressful experience, especially for beginners. However, with some practice and knowledge of the correct techniques, anyone can master the skill of docking. Here are some essential docking techniques to help you get started:

Preparation

Before approaching the dock, it is crucial to prepare your boat. This includes adjusting your fenders to the optimal height for the pier and boat. Ensure your bow and stern lines are attached to the boat cleats and are in the correct position. If your vessel has gates, open them to improve visibility. It is also essential to be aware of your surroundings, including the path you plan to take, the presence of other boats, and the wind, water currents, and depth.

Slow and Steady Approach

As you approach the dock, maintain a slow and steady speed. Never approach the dock faster than you would be comfortable hitting it. Adjust your boat to a 45-degree angle as you get closer, and then put the boat in reverse to align the stern with the dock.

Tie Up Securely

Once you have reached the dock, it is time to secure your vessel. Use common boating knots such as the cleat hitch, clove hitch, or bowline to tie your boat to the pier. Keep the engine running while you tie off your lines to quickly respond if the boat starts drifting due to wind or current.

Docking in a Slip

Docking in a slip requires more manoeuvrability. Slow down and position your boat at a 45-degree angle towards the pier. When you are about half a boat's length away, reposition the boat away from the pier and shift into neutral. Centre your steering wheel, and then shift into reverse as your boat's bow moves away from the dock. Shear off before the bow touches the dock, and slowly move ahead. Once in the slip, secure your boat by tying the lines to the cleats.

Docking a Pontoon Boat

When docking a pontoon boat, pay close attention to wind and current conditions as they can easily push your boat off track. Use controlled bursts of acceleration to counter strong winds, and don't be afraid to use reverse to stop forward movement. Prepare your docking lines and fenders in advance, and consider having someone on land guide your boat into the slip or alongside the dock.

Solo Docking

Docking a boat by yourself can be challenging, but with preparation, it is manageable. Have your stern and bow lines ready and adjust your fenders to the dock's height. Approach the dock at a 30-degree angle, giving yourself plenty of room. Put the boat in reverse as you get close to slow down and align with the dock. Carefully step onto the dock with a docking line and secure your boat, considering tying both the bow and stern lines for extra hold.

Knots for tying up

When it comes to tying up a boat, there are several knots you can use to secure your vessel. Here are some detailed instructions on how to tie some of the most common and useful knots for docking your boat:

Cleat Hitch

The cleat hitch is one of the most commonly used knots for docking a boat, so it is important to master this knot. Here are the steps to tie a cleat hitch:

• Wrap the line around one side of the base of a cleat, going under the "horns" (the ends on either side).
• Pull the line across the top of the cleat, then loop it under the horn on the opposite side.
• Reverse direction and go across the top of the cleat, going back towards the first horn.
• Instead of passing the line under the first horn, form a small loop and flip it upside down. Place this loop over the horn and pull tightly so that the line cinches down on itself.
• Repeat the process on the second horn of the cleat.

Clove Hitch

The clove hitch is a useful knot for securing a line to a rail, pole, or piling. It can be tied in two different ways, depending on the structure you are tying to.

Tying to a Rail or Pole

• Wrap the line once around the rail or pole.
• Begin wrapping the rail or pole a second time, crossing over the top of the first wrap.
• Before pulling it tight, pass the tag end (the loose end) back underneath and tug to secure the knot in place.

Tying to a Pole with an Accessible End

• Make a loop and pass it over the end of the pole.
• Make a second loop and flip it over so that the tag end faces the first loop, then pull it tight.

Note: The clove hitch should not be used for heavy-duty tasks like securing a boat to a dock, as it can come undone if the line isn't under constant slight pressure or if the line rotates on the rail or pole.

Bowline

The bowline is a versatile knot that creates a loop in the end of a line. This knot is useful for tasks such as securing a line to a piling or attaching two lines together. One of its biggest advantages is that it is very easy to undo, even after being under tension. Here are the steps to tie a bowline:

• Make a small loop in the line a couple of feet from the end, then pass the end of the line up through the loop.
• Wrap the end around the main line above the loop, then turn the end back down and thread it back down through the loop.
• Tug hard on the end and the main line above the loop to snug the knot down.

Frequently asked questions