How to Leave a Dock in a Sailboat Safely

Leaving a dock in a sailboat is much like getting out of a parking spot in a car, but with the added difficulty of the waves trying to push you against the dock or against other boats, of the wind making you drift uncontrollably and of the powerful momentum of your boat's movement in the water. Despite this, some planning and observation can help you out of the dock safely.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Plan your route out of the dock. Be aware of the wind and the current, the depth of the water and think about where you want the front of the boat to face when you are out of the dock. Be aware of other boat traffic and any hazards or dangers in the area.

2. Make an alternate plan in case things go wrong, like your engine dying. Have lines and boat hooks available to secure the boat and keep it off other boats if your engine dies.

3. Start the engine and let it warm up.

4. Untie the boat from the dock and let it drift out of the dock.

5. Pull in the fenders.

6. Shift the engine to forward when you're at a safe distant from the dock to turn and leave the dock.

7. Stow the lines and fenders out of the way and keep watch for other boats, swimmers or other hazards.

Tips & Warnings

• If the wind is pushing you toward the dock, untie all the lines except for an after bow spring line and turn the motor or rudder so that the stern drifts away from the dock, then back away from the dock.

Who Can Help:

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