5 Tips for Docking a Boat

Docking a boat can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re a new boater. A busy marina can also add to the tension. And as a Freedom Boat Club member, you’ll find yourself having to dock various types of boats. Boat models will handle differently based on their weight, size, keel shape and depth, hull shape and more.

While our dock staff is always standing by to help members, we strongly believe that developing the skills needed to dock a variety of boats will make you more confident behind the helm. So, we’ve outlined 5 solid docking tips to help you dock any boat in your club’s fleet. And if you make these tips a habit, you’ll start to feel that docking anxiety melt away.

1. Approach the Dock Slow and Steady

A rule of thumb in boating is to never approach a dock faster than you’re willing to hit it. Go easy on the throttle and pull in at a slow, controlled speed. This allows more time to react and adjust if needed. It’s easier to add a short burst of power than it is to correct a situation where too much power was applied.

You should also embrace the power of no power. Primarily operating the boat in neutral will help you maintain control of the boat’s momentum and approach the dock carefully. It’s easier to maneuver this way as opposed to leaving it in gear. If needed, gently move in reverse when you need to slow down or back up.

2. Assess the Wind and Current

Pause before docking and take note of the weather. Two major factors to consider are wind and current. Either of these can derail your docking attempt, so try to use them to your advantage instead. It’s best to dock with the bow into wind and current if possible.

Because wind and current impact a boat's movement, they can be used to make your docking process smoother. You can adjust the angle of your approach and compensate for drifting while keeping the vessel in neutral. Remember that the weather may not be the same as when you left, so never approach a dock without assessing the present conditions. 

3. Have the Lines and Fenders Ready

Before you reach the dock, have your lines and fenders ready to go. Don't forget to check that your fenders, and all lines, are tied to your vessel before throwing them overboard. Fenders are crucial to ensuring the boat and the dock are protected from potential damage.

We recommend storing them in an easy-to-reach place along the side of the boat. Make sure the lines haven’t become tangled during your outing. Taking this step before approaching the dock will prevent last-minute scrambling. 

4. Communicate with Boat Passengers

You need to clearly communicate with other people aboard the boat to pull off a successful docking. Make sure everyone understands their role and is making a coordinated effort to secure the boat.

Passengers that are not helping with the docking process should remain seated and out of the way. You don’t want anyone to block the driver’s visibility or get in the way of those taking an active role. With everyone's cooperation, the boat is much more likely to safely enter the marina. From there, turn off the engine and tie the boat to cleats near the bow and the stern.

5. Practice Makes Perfect

We hope that applying the above tips will reduce your docking anxiety. But it’s unlikely to make you a docking pro right away. It takes time and experience to become completely familiar with the boats in your club’s fleet. Don’t be discouraged by initial difficulties.

As long as you remain calm and take things slowly, you’ll get the boat where it belongs without a major incident. And don’t forget that Freedom Boat Club members receive free and unlimited training by our certified captains. Reach out to your local club to arrange a training, and we’ll be happy to help you develop better boat handling skills and master the nuances of docking.

If you found this article helpful, you should also check out our tips for safe boat navigation.