How To

How to Use Twin Screws to Bring a Powerboat Alongside a Dock

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Adding an engine to the docking process gives you more control, but it requires a greater level of skill.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Approach the dock from four or more boat lengths downwind.

  2. Step 2

    Set up fenders and dock lines.

  3. Step 3

    Stand off the dock one to two boat lengths and slow to bare steerage way.

  4. Step 4

    Estimate one boat length downwind of the dock, then turn toward the dock.

  5. Step 5

    Point the bow to a spot about midway along the dock.

  6. Step 6

    Shift both engines to neutral and center the helm.

  7. Step 7

    Shift the outboard engine (further from the dock) to reverse when the bow reaches a spot the beam's distance from the dock.

  8. Step 8

    Allow the bow to turn slightly away from the dock, then shift back to neutral.

  9. Step 9

    Repeat if necessary to get the boat to turn parallel to the dock.

  10. Step 10

    Make gentle contact with the dock at a spot somewhere between the beam and the bow. Make sure the contact point is fendered.

  11. Step 11

    Allow 1 to 3 feet of distance between the stern and the dock.

  12. Step 12

    Shift the outboard engine to reverse and the inboard engine to forward for just a moment.

  13. Step 13

    Step onto the dock and secure the boat when it comes alongside.

Comments  

dawnzlight said

Flag This Comment

on 11/6/2007 Very easy to read and follow along. Should be very helpful to those that need help docking this style boat. Myself.. I love my pontoon boat :)

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