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Preparation ~
Proper docking requires preparation. Start by making sure you have adequate mooring gear that is stowed correctly and
ready for use. Your dealer is the best source for information concerning the amount and type of equipment you should
carry.
Approaching the dock ~
When approaching a dock, lower your speed within reasonable distance to allow the wake to subside before it reaches
other boats, or docks. As you get close to the dock, check for any wind or current action that may affect your manoeuvre,
then make a conservative approach with these factors in mind. Try to use the elements to your advantage. Allow them to
carry the boat into the dock. If there are high winds or strong currents, it is best to approach from the lee side (against the
wind and current). With a mild current and little or no wind, it is best to approach from the windward side (with the wind
and current).
While approaching, ensure all lines are attached to the cleats on the side facing the dock. Also ensure fenders are
lowered on the same side. Be sure to check the fenders are hung at the proper height.
Approach at idle RPM at an angle approximately 45 degrees to the dock. When the bow is within a few metres of the dock
(starboard side) the stern can be brought alongside by turning hard to port. Next, turn to starboard and at idle RPM put the
boat into reverse. This will stop the boat and bring the stern closer to the dock. These steps are reversed for docking to
port. A precaution should be taken not to allow limbs between the boat and the dock.
Mooring ~
To attach lines to deck cleats, make a loop in one end of the line and pass it through the hole in the base of the cleat; then
pass the loop back over the entire cleat. The line can now be used to secure the boat. Lines may be kept this way while
underway, providing they are coiled and cannot become tangled in deck gear or props. In heavy sea conditions, all lines
should be removed from the deck. Fenders should also be used when mooring the vessel to protect the side of the vessel.
HANDY TIP
To tie up, run the line from the boat around the dock cleat and then back to the boat. This way you can untie the line
without jumping from the deck to dock and back again. Instead, just cast off one end of the line and bring the whole length
back on board.
Leaving the Dock ~
Take into account the wind, tide, current and other forces that affect manoeuvring when leaving the dock. Most
manoeuvring to and from a dock is best accomplished at idle speeds. Do not forget to release the mooring lines and stow
the fenders.
When leaving a dock on the starboard side and the bow cannot be pushed away from the dock first observe the following
points:
1. Start forward with the steering wheel turned to starboard for two or three feet.
2. Then shift to reverse with steering full to port.
3. Repeat if necessary to shift the stern far enough away from the dock to be clear of other boats that may be
moored ahead. (Reverse these steps when leaving a dock located to port.)
DO NOT tow your boat or use your boat to tow other boats:
Damage caused to a boat due to towing behind another vessel or towing another vessel WILL NOT be covered under
warranty. The stress caused by towing in this way is outside the design specifications for our boats. A customer using a
boat as a tender for a larger vessel must transport the boat on the larger vessel.
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