Sailing Maneuvers - Docking

• Inform the crew first about your plan - how to enter and leave the dock. Clear communication among the crew members is crucial. Make sure that they know what they will do in the process.
• Safety is an important concern. Never place your arms and/or legs between the boat and the dock and pilings. A boat wake can cause injuries to your body if you crash against the dock. Moreover, do not try to stop the boat from hitting the dock using your legs or hands.
• Enough knowledge about handling Sailing Lines and Sailing Knots is a must when docking, especially when tying up to pilings.
• Consider the Wind direction as well as the Tidal condition. Dock the Bow first into the Wind and current.
• Prepare the necessary docklines and fenders.
• Bear in mind that boats do not have brakes. Approach the dock in slow speed, but maintain steerage.
• If you decide to stop at an unfamiliar marina, ask the dock master beforehand about the Wind, current, and Tidal conditions. You can also inquire about your slip.
• Tie the lines up to windward pilings first.
• It would be better if you have spare fenders and docklines on board.
• Practice docking in favorable conditions.