Docking your boat might seem easy when you have lots of room and there’s no one around. But try it in a crowded area or when you’re maneuvering in a complicated dock setup and things get stressful. Here are a few tips on how to dock your boat like a pro.
- Practice. As with everything, the more you practice, the better you get. Find an empty or uncrowded dock where you can work on your skills.
- Consider the conditions. Factors like wind and current can move your boat in unpredictable ways. Keep the conditions in mind as you approach the dock.
- Go slow. Take it slow so you don’t cause damage if you do hit the dock. Use only short bursts of power to prevent creating too much momentum.
- Turn before powering. Turning your wheel before you apply power will prevent your boat from moving unpredictably and will keep you aimed at your target.
- Place fenders strategically. Think about where your boat is most likely to contact the dock and pilings. Placing your fenders where they will be most effective will make docking easier.