How to Dock a Boat Outboard

Boat docks are made in a variety of designs, requiring familiarity with each when docking.

Unlike a sailboat running on a main propeller motor deep underneath, an outboard engine boat utilizes propulsion closer to the water surface. This moves smaller boats faster but also makes it harder to handle them when docking. The trick to successful docking involves patience and timing. Instead of gunning the engine right into the dock location, the boat owner needs to gently push the boat just enough to keep it moving in the right direction. After that, inertia takes care of most of the movement.

Things You'll Need

• Boat ropes
• Boat fenders

Instructions

1. Aim the boat toward the dock position while approaching. Point it directly into the slip if entering a full boat slip dock. Aim the boat at a 60 degree angle if docking at a side slip dock.

2. Slow and stop the boat down completely a few feet from the dock. Put the engine in reverse if you need to slow considerably. Aim the rudder in the direction of the dock. Check the surrounding wind at the moment to determine whether it is working with you or against the boat. Place your fenders and ropes along the boat side where you intend to dock.

3. Idle the boat forward and begin to turn away from the dock if it is a side slip, which will propel the boat in a forward curve. Otherwise, propel forward slowly into a full boat slip.

4. Let the boat float toward the dock and come to a stop. Do not gun the engines to make it go the last few feet. Keep the engine in neutral. Have ropes ready on the boat docking side. Throw the rope to the dock as you get close. Jump off the boat and grab the lead rope. Do the same and grab the rear or stern rope if approaching into a side slip.

5. Tie the rope around a cleat. Get back onto the boat and grab the remaining rope for the other end of the boat. Jump back to the dock and tie this line as well to another cleat. Make sure side fenders are in place so the boat hull does not rub against the dock side. Cut the engine and turn off the power.

Tips & Warnings

• If you've never docked a boat before, have an experienced friend go boating with you the first time. What you learn by experience and practice will be far more informative than referencing a book or guide.

• Always look before you leap to a dock. While it may seem close, casual leaping without looking can cause you to fall between into the water. Even a partial fall can cause a serious injury such as a broken bone or bad sprain to an arm or leg trying to catch the fall.

References

• BoatSafe.com: Docking & Undocking
• Discover Boating: Docking Tips
• Tropical Boating: How to Dock an Outboard or Stern-Drive Boat