How to Use Twin Screws to Get a Powerboat off a Side-Tied Dock

When you're ready to embark from the dock, two engines are better than one - if you know what to do with them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Boating Safety
• Boats

1. Release the spring lines and station a crew member at each remaining dock line.

2. Untie both dock lines, then loop each once around its cleat and hand the end to the deck crew.

3. Place extra fenders between the beam and bow.

4. Release the stern dock line.

5. Shift the outboard (further from the dock) engine to forward, while keeping tension on the bow line.

6. Shift quickly back to neutral.

7. Shift both engines to reverse when the stern has come 3 feet or more away from the dock.

8. Steer clear of the dock.

9. Retrieve the dock lines and crew from the deck.

Tips & Warnings

• If a substantial wind is blowing on the beam, you may want to add more reverse to the inboard (closer to the dock) engine when you motor away from the dock.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!