Docking with twin I/Os

[partskenn]

Re: Docking with twin I/Os

Just like to say thanks again to everyone who posted replies to my original questions. Over the last month, I have finally been manuvering close to the dock with engines alone and have been pretty successful at it.
Following someones suggestion, I practiced on a slow day at the marina, and found my pivot point to be around my swim platform, which is farther back than I would have guessed. Knowing that, if I am going bow in, I overshoot my target, than pivot around on the stern till she lines up, than go forward in. The first couple times I did it, my wife was up on the bow asking me if I knew where I was going, after that she caught on. Backing in is still a bit of an adventure, but it's a lot better than it was.
Having said all this, the next time I do it, I'll probably biff it good to pay me back for my newfound confidence. Thanks again.

 

[RedMan1973]

Re: Docking with twin I/Os

I have run a 30' twin I/O and currently a 40' with twin inboards. I'm going to assume that you have counter-rotating props. Center the wheel and leave it alone. Approach your destination docking from upwind or upcurrent if possible. You'll have much better control that you will going with the wind or current.

Approach nothing any faster than you are comfortable hitting it. When you're ready to make your turns, remember:

1) Port shifter forward / starboard shifter reverse = spins to starboard in the boats own length
2) Port shifter reverse / starboard shifter forward = spins to port in the boats own length
3) Port neutral / starboard forward = wide arc to port
4) Port forward / starboard neutral = wide arc to starboard

In a confined setting (no obstructions like boats or jet skis), try to alway come to a complete stop, then immediately make your shifter adjustments. The longer you sit in neutral, the more apt you are to become a victim of wind/current. As long as you are actively spinning a prop, the wind/current will have minimal effect (barring high winds...duh). If you find yourself needing a little correction, that can be done via the throttle of the engine that's in gear or by momentarily taking it out of gear.

The best (and I mean best) way to perfect your backing is to practice, practice, practice. Go to a marina if possible or a friends dock and spend a few hours approaching, backing, and docking. Also, you need to practice docking to both sides of the boat, which when docking to port, that has a totally different feel. If you have someone who is accomplished at this, invite them along. Let an experienced person assist, this way if something isn't going right, they can help you determine what needs to be corrected. Don't be afraid of using a piling as a lever against the current, or using spring lines to help.

It really is a simple concept and much easier that slipping a single screw. Once you get the hang of it, you'll wonder what the problem ever was. You'll even learn how to put one engine in gear, one in neutral, and cutting the wheel to make your boat move on a diagonal!

Keep practicing!!

I will agree with everything you stated, I started out with a 32? single screw shrimp boat in MS and trying to steer and throttle at the same time sucks.

I will also add that we were all the same way at one point, I have taken off chunks of piers, boats, ripped off a cleat once (not sure how I managed that one). Practice makes perfect, just keep at it and one day you will have no issues. Good luck

 

[CaptainKickback]

Re: Docking with twin I/Os

Just like to say thanks again to everyone who posted replies to my original questions. Over the last month, I have finally been manuvering close to the dock with engines alone and have been pretty successful at it.
Following someones suggestion, I practiced on a slow day at the marina, and found my pivot point to be around my swim platform, which is farther back than I would have guessed. Knowing that, if I am going bow in, I overshoot my target, than pivot around on the stern till she lines up, than go forward in. The first couple times I did it, my wife was up on the bow asking me if I knew where I was going, after that she caught on. Backing in is still a bit of an adventure, but it's a lot better than it was.
Having said all this, the next time I do it, I'll probably biff it good to pay me back for my newfound confidence. Thanks again.

Congrats on getting more comfortable with the boat. Knew you could do it.

Sea ya...