If you get stressed out approaching the dock, you’re not alone. Docking can be one of the trickiest parts of boating, even if you’re operating a smaller vessel. While smaller boats can be more maneuverable, they can also respond more noticeably to wind, current, and throttle changes, which can throw off your approach if you’re unprepared.
Key Takeaways – Docking a Small Boat
In this post, we provide video and beginner-friendly, step-by-step instructions on how to dock a small boat:
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Preparation is Key: Assess the docking environment before approaching, considering factors like wind and current. Make sure your crew is ready with dock lines and fenders.
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Controlled Approach: Dock at idle speed and use the “steer then gear” method to maintain control and accuracy during docking.
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Safety First: Use reverse to slow down and adjust as you approach the dock. Prioritize control over speed to safely stop and secure the boat in the slip using dock lines and fenders.
Check out our step-by-step guide and video below from our recent Facebook and TikTok livestreams on how to dock a small boat and also refer to our step-by-step docking guide below.
Docking a Small Boat, Step-By-Step Guide
- Assess the docking situation before you approach the dock. Be aware of wind, current, and best approach angles. You should also mentally plan out your maneuvers before you get to the dock so you have a game plan ready.
- Prepare the boat for docking. You and or crew should have dock lines out and ready, as well as install fenders to protect the boat during landing. It’s also helpful to have your crew ready with a dock pole and aware of your verbal directions to help you when you get to the dock.
- Approach slowly. Come into the dock at idle speed—never faster than you’re willing to bump something.
- Account for wind and current. Small boats are more affected by wind. Notice the wind direction and angle your approach accordingly. It’s best to dock into the wind, or into the current, whichever is stronger. If you cannot approach in that manner, be aware that current or wind will greatly effect the direction and speed of your boat as you approach. As such, try to use the wind and current to your advantage.
- Remember “steer then gear.” In neutral, turn your wheel/engine in the direction you wish to go, then put the boat in gear for controlled and accurate bursts of propulsion, then back to neutral. You may repeat this numerous times as you approach the dock/slip in order to move the boat at slow, controlled speeds only in the directions you wish.
- Use reverse to slow down or adjust as you near the dock. Keep in mind that reverse allows you to not only slow your forward speed, but you can also adjust the bow position using reverse, or adjust the overall angle of the boat.
- Speed is not the goal of docking; the goal is control. Remember you are aiming to always be in control of the boat’s motion and direction, even if you are just gliding into the dock slip.
- Stop the Momentum. Once inside the dock slip or at the dock, use reverse to stop forward motion. Important: Don’t forget to take the boat out of reverse or use any throttle in reverse as you may pull the boat back out of slip.
- Secure the Boat: When initially at the slip, install dock lines to hold the boat in place initially, but then make sure you adjust each line as applicable so the dock lines are supporting the boat in the slip or acting like your suspension or fendering system. If dock lines alone won’t suspend the boat, or if there are areas the boat will rub against the dock, be sure to hang your fenders such that they protect the dock from the boat and boat from the dock.
Catch Us Live for Exclusive Content
We go live regularly on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram to share boating and docking tips. Plus, you can take a virtual ride out on Lake Hopatcong and have your questions answered during our livestream Q&A sessions. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at our Boating Club and rental fleet, plus new and pre-owned boats for sale.
Stay tuned – we’ll be going live again soon, and we’d love to have you join us!
Learn to Boat with Us
Docking doesn’t have to be stressful. If you want to dock a boat like a pro or are just starting your boating journey, our on-water boating lessons are a great way to build confidence at the helm with one-on-one coaching. We offer a variety of class levels to benefit new and seasoned boaters in partnership with BoatUS Foundation and National Safe Boating Council.
We also hold NJ Boating Safety Certificate Courses year-round to help new boaters begin their boating lifestyle. With several course options to fit your schedule, our Boating Safety Certificate Courses are the best way to get your certificate and learn the basics of boating and safety on the water. Learn from the leaders in boating hospitality and sign up for one of our classes on Lake Hopatcong or in Highlands here!
Whether you’re local to the area or just visiting, our boating education programs are here to help you enjoy boating safely and stress-free.
Begin Your Boating Journey with Bridge Marina
Ready to become a boating and docking pro? Fill out this quick contact form or call us at (973) 663-1976, and we’ll happily guide you through the process!
We look forward to helping you navigate the waters confidently and safely!