Docking your boat is extremely important to master. It is important not to damage Marina equipment, other boats and of course your own boat.
While approaching the dock, it is important to know how much wind there is and which way it is blowing. It is also important to know the same facts about currents and tides.
Knowing these factors allows you to adjust speed and direction so that you can dock safely. You want to go as slow as you can so you can dock safely, but fast enough to be able to steer and control your boat.
For most recreational boats, two dock lines are needed at the bow and two dock lines are needed at the stern. These lines are usually about two thirds the length of your boat. One or two spring lines are needed in tidal waters and these should be equal to the length of the boat.
At your Home Port, it is traditional to have " permanent lines" in place so that they can be grabbed easily by hand or with a boat hook simplifying the process of securing your boat in the slip. Secure your boat as needed so that it will not hit anything as the currents and tides change. Hang sturdy bumpers as needed as insurance against these situations.
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