Docking at a marina involves parking your boat in a slip and paying a fee for the space. Some people use the terms boat dock and boat slip interchangeably. While both offer a safe place to dock your boat, there’s one difference that depends on your boat’s size.
For example, you and your friend use the same marina for docking. He has a yacht, and you have a Jet Ski. Since his boat is bigger, he secures his boat parallel to the dock. You, on the other hand ease into a slip that secures your boat from both sides.
If you ask us, renting a slip is better because it offers you more mooring points. It also prevents extra grinding and bumping against other boats and the dock.
Now that you know the basics of the different docking methods, let’s take a look at the steps on how to dock your boat:
Step #1 Prepare the Boat
You need to prepare your boat for docking before you approach the shore. Ensure all the gear, such as fenders and dock lines, are in place. This will prevent any last-minute scrambling.
- Position the fenders at the right height, so they meet the pier
- Tie the stern and bow lines to the cleats that will face the dock
- If your boat has gates, open them for better visibility
Step #2 Approach the Dock
Now that the slip is in sight, you might feel a little nervous as your boat gets closer to it. Remember to go slow. One of the biggest mistakes many boaters make is that they approach the boat too fast.
- Come at a 45° angle
- When the boat’s bow has almost reached the dock, slow down further and slowly drift in
- Put the boat in reverse and ensure the engine is pointing toward the dock
- Keep reversing until the stern has reached the dock
Step #3 Tie the Boat to the Dock
Congratulations! You successfully docked your boat. Now, all you have to do I secure it to the dock.
- Make sure the controls are in neutral
- Keep the engine on when you are tying the stern and bow lines. This will allow you to immediately grab the controls if the boat drifts away from the dock due to heavy wind or current
- Remove the safety lanyard before exiting the boat
Sometimes, you might calculate the distance too long. Instead of winging it, reverse and approach the dock again. There might be a few boats waiting behind you to dock as well, and making them wait can be a little rude, but it is better than hitting the dock or other boats.
As a docking beginner, remember the Golden Rule of Docking: Always dock SLOW.
A boat’s speed is not like a car, which comes to a complete halt when you press the break. Since you are in the water, the boat keeps swaying, and the current can shift it away from the dock. So, it’s important to be vigilant when tying the lines.
If you want to build a dock at your lakefront property, visit the Nor Col EZ Dock website. They offer boat docks in different designs and materials. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
