Docking to a Windward Finger

[Pacificcatalyst]

Our old powerboat is 102 gross tons and has 100 HP. Single screw. No thruster. Soooooo, there are times when it's just impossible to get where I want to be, and I have to moor where the boat and conditions put us.

That said, we use a forward spring at all times. It is the first line on, and the last off. One thing that helps us (with our plumb bow and heavy stem iron) is to ease up to the end of the slip until the iron is touching, then use the engine to hold us there while we get the lines on the dock.

Once the spring (#2 line) is secure (typically passed around the bull rail or cleat and then back aboard) I use the rudder to swing the stern in so we can secure the stern line (#4 line) then put the helm to starboard which brings the bow in, to get the bow line (#1) on. Once these lines are all secure, I go go out of gear and make sure we're laying as we want. If not, we fiddle around with forward and reverse to get the lines tight and the gate where we want it (not on the power pedistal or an unused cleat).

There are times when anchoring, or finding a dock that's down current or down wind, are the only feasible actions. Experience is as much about what you and your boat CAN'T do than what you can.

[RaySea Lady]

Originally Posted by rabend

I will be single handing a 44' sailboat and frequently tying up to a windward finger. I was wondering what methods/tools might be recommended to quickly get the lines on the cleats before drifting off.

Thanks,

Bob

Not sure if this would do the trick but this dock wand seems like it would.

See this thread.

The Couple Across the Dock from Me Invented Something Pretty Cool ...