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Flotsam said:
StormJib nails it. Only thing to add is to be prepared to ignore the person on the dock insisting on being thrown the bow line. I'm amazed when I think about all of the supposedly experienced dock hands I've met who still don't understand spring lines. Worst jam I've ever gotten into while docking was because I allowed myself to be intimidated by the lady in a white shirt and khakis uniform demanding the bow line when because of the crosswind, I knew damn well the spring line was called for.

Remember, YOU are the captain, YOU now know better. Stick to your guns and throw 'em the spring line.


Agree about the spring .. Reef song is a 52 mono and Ward is a Harbor Pilot who deals with docking of cruise ships and super tankers so he is a slow and steady ( but enough speed to control the boat ) spring first man also. And don't be afraid to make sure you play around with maneuvering the boat lots before your first dock attempt . Ward describes it as being one with the boat and knowing how it will respond . Every boat is different until you get the proper feel.... Apparently ( I'm a pretty good first mate but leave the docking to the expert ) <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/circle.gif" alt="" />

Kim