Even for the most seasoned of boaters, docking can offer up a challenge. Our brokers Ben Johnson and Pete Sponek, both with decades of experience under their belts, offer some tips on making docking seamless and stress-free.
- No yelling. Communication is most effective when you're calm.
- Go slowly. If there's a worst case scenario, it's better to bump into something than to ram into it.
- Sit idle in front of the marina for a few minutes to see how your boat will react to the wind and current before entering.
- Make sure your fender height and lines are adjusted.
- Use two sets of eyes. If someone is assisting you, they should be positioned on the opposite side of the boat, serving as your second set of eyes.
- Imagine you are pushing a shopping cart to visualize how the boat will turn when you use the thrusters.
- If you have thrusters, use them, but do not overuse. They are a great aid, but can overheat if they are relied on instead of proper handling.
- If it is a twin-engine boat, make sure you center the rudder.
- Take your bowline, bring it back and tie to the midship cleat. Here, it will be easy to get a hold of once you are on the dock, which will allow you to easily maneuver the bow.
- When in doubt, call ahead so that you can get dock assistance and someone to handle the lines.
Check out "Wave Glide" the 39' Grand Banks used for the demonstration.
