Re: Newbie docking
Where do you boat? And what do you have? With that noted. My advice is to really understand the wind around your dock/marina. I have been on a few charters, ferries etc. and I always find my way to the Captain if I can. One of them, big boat, taught me something simple that can be helpful. Come to a stop well outside your slip and take a quick reading of what the wind is doing that minute.
Also, some have mentioned practice, but you should go out with your first mate. Just you two if there is a first mate. And do nothing but practice. Go out and practice backing in both directions. This way you will learn the particulars of your hull, and also develop a routine together. Also, watch others. Many times those that look like things are so easy are using simple tricks of the trade. Most often, with bigger boats, someone is using a line on a cleat that they use power to pull against and they can easily snuggle up to the dock. This is another thing you can do with a Boat Hook (docking pole). Use it to loop a line around a cleat, and then cleat her off on the boat side and use power as I mentioned. There are some good Youtube vids, and graphics on this technique as well.
Good luck and welcome aboard!!!
