Lesson 7 - Marina Docking

Docking in a marina along a finger dock is a fundamental skill for any skipper. The key to success lies in adapting your technique based on the wind direction. This guide breaks down both major scenarios: wind blowing onto the dock and wind blowing off the dock.

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Scenario 1: Wind Blowing Onto the Dock

This is the easier of the two situations—the wind helps push the boat toward the dock. Still, control is crucial.

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Approach Strategy:

• Approach slowly at a shallow angle (20–30°).

• Use short bursts of forward power to stay on course.

• Avoid too much speed—wind won’t be enough to stop you.

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Docking Steps:

• As the stern reaches the dock, briefly engage forward gear to halt reverse movement.

• Let the wind push the boat gently in.

• Secure the stern line first to prevent the bow from swinging in too hard.

• Use small throttle adjustments to hold position.

• Step off and tie the bow line, then add spring lines for stability.

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Final Touches:

• Check fender placement and adjust dock lines.

• Ensure lines are snug but not overly tight—allow for some movement.

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Scenario 2: Wind Blowing Off the Dock

This situation is more difficult—you’ll be working against the wind.

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Approach Strategy:

• Use a steeper angle (30–40°) and a bit more momentum.

• If you approach too slowly, the wind will push you off before securing lines.

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Docking Steps:

• As the stern reaches the dock, quickly secure a windward stern line.

• Engage forward gear at idle, turning the wheel toward the dock.

  • This keeps the bow pulled in and the stern pressed against the dock.

  • Prop walk will help hold your position.

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Solo Docking Tip:

• Use a boat hook to loop a line over a cleat if needed.

• Once stable, step off and tie the bow line.

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Add Spring Lines:

• Forward spring lines are especially helpful to counter wind pushing the boat back.

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Troubleshooting:

• If the bow drifts downwind, use brief reverse throttle to pull the stern back in, then re-engage forward gear.

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Key Docking Principles (Both Scenarios)

• The windward stern line is your anchor point:

  • With wind pushing on: it prevents stern swing-out.

  • With wind pushing off: it lets you drive the boat onto the dock.

• Fenders must be in place before docking to absorb impact.

• Spring lines add crucial forward/backward stability.

• Practice patience—if the approach doesn’t feel right, back out and try again.

• Always account for tide and current as additional influencing factors.

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Final Tips for Confident Docking

• Slow is pro – Always dock at the lowest speed that allows full control.

• Communicate clearly with crew (or plan solo maneuvers ahead).

• Use prop walk to assist with alignment.

• Rehearse in different conditions—experience builds confidence.

• Don’t rush the process. Precision is more important than speed.

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By mastering these techniques, you’ll be able to handle finger dock approaches like a pro—even in windy conditions.