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BoatCrazy
RO# 30843
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 Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:08:48
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So what is your policy when you go to dock your boat, and there are people on your boat, or on the dock.
This question applies to backing into a slip as well as docking to a floating side or bulkhead.
When I am in my little boat and I dock to the floating dock, I want NO ONE to move, I ask for them to be seated and not to shift weight. I ask for that because on a 17 footer, when people start moving, the boat leans and sits a different way. Doesnt really throw off the ability to dock, but its just not what I prefer. We all have enough to worry about with wind, current, other boats around etc.
I also ask for all hands to remain IN the boat and do not reach for lines. I will bring the boat right to the lines (I lay the lines out so they go right to the cleat once docked, no reaching no pulling. Also, I ask for hands to be kept in the boat because I do not want anyone pushing off, thats how bones break.
When backing into a slip with the big boat, the same applies. If needed I will appoint someone to throw a line. Also, I discourage people on the dock from jumping onto the swim platform to help tie up before the boat is even fully at the dock. I make sure that people are sitting not in the rear corners of the boat so I can easily get to the cleats and lines without tripping over people.
What do you all do?
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| "It is what it is and it aint what it aint" |
Homeport: Long Beach NY
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MikeeH
RO# 6342
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:14:37
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BC, exactly the same as you. When we had the big boat I told all "guests" to just stay seated and away from the gunwale and cleates during departure and return. With our 20 ft bowrider I not only tell them to stay seated but also where to sit depending on tides and winds.
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Mike
I recently realized that at this stage of my life I'm now wise enough to know better, but old enough not to give a damn.
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Homeport: Still Pond, MD
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ranger42c
RO# 32710
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:20:03
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I vary depending on visitor.
With some, I assume they'd like to learning something about boating so I put 'em to work -- with a specific assignment (pick up dock line, deploy fender, whatever) and specific instructions on how to accomplish that.
With others, I park 'em out of my lines of sight.
No one on the swim platform in any docking maneuvers.
No fending off -- partly 'cause if I can't solve it with 900 hp a mere mortal ain't gonna fix it much better, partly because unanticipated fending can hose up my approach, and partly to keep human appendages out from in between hard boat and hard piles.
-Chris
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Selby Bay, South River
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Homeport: Londontowne, MD
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BoatCrazy
RO# 30843
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:30:25
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The GF said to me a few weeks ago that she wants to learn how to run the boat. I said no problem.
We loaded up the small boat and I stood at the front of the boat and said OK, start going through the procedures. She sees me do it a million times, and she replies with, NO NO I want to run the boat in the bay not at the dock. I said, we crawl, walk, then run. I continued with, in order to OPERATE a boat, you first must RUN the boat. She did not see the difference.
To me, when you run the boat you call the shots, you check safety equipment prior to leaving the dock, electronics, do the radio check etc, check the bilge, fuel level, start the motor. She goes yeah thats too much to do, forget it.
I said no way you are going to learn. So we spent an hour going over EVERYTHING for the little boat. She turned on the GPS (for speed), she did her radio check, she primed the bulb and started the motor. When it came time to undoing the lines, she just took them off the cleat and threw them up on the dock. I walked back and turned the motor off and gave her a lesson on how to put the lines on the dock so when we come back they are right there. She told me I was anal.
Oh well.. She will get it one of these days.
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| "It is what it is and it aint what it aint" |
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Homeport: Long Beach NY
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CurrentSea
RO# 10265
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:33:42
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My boat barely fits in my slip so it's important I get it right and it's totally on me to get it in there.
My rules are:
- Don't block the view down the bridge steps (that is my only reference point to dock)
- Don't reach for lines until I say so.
- Don't touch poles at all.
- Don't go on the swim platform until I am in neutral and say you can.
- Don't open transom door until I am in slip completly and boat is in neutreul (though recently I learned opening the transom door greatly improves my visibility when docking).
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2009 Regal 4080
Volvo Diesel IPS |
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Homeport: Anchorage YC - Lindenhurst, NY
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Audrey II
RO# 30499
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:35:09
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Anyone on board is ask to have a seat out of the way except my wife who knows what needs to be done. If someone is on the dock my wife will give very clear instructions as to which line is ok to grab and exactly were to place it. In the past I have received lots of well intended help that has completely screwed up my docking such as placing a spring line on the wrong cleat so that half way into the slip the boat swings out because it runs out of line. There are a handful of people at the dock that have learned how to help and I appreciate this but most of the time I require no help this said I don't want to turn away the help because some day I may need it and they won't be there.
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Dave
I just wish common sense was a little more common.
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1996 440 Trojan Express
2008 Sea-Doo GTX Jet Ski sold |
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Homeport: Haverstraw, NY
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mdoherty
RO# 12220
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:41:15
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quote:
Originally posted by BoatCrazy
The GF said to me a few weeks ago that she wants to learn how to run the boat. I said no problem.
We loaded up the small boat and I stood at the front of the boat and said OK, start going through the procedures. She sees me do it a million times, and she replies with, NO NO I want to run the boat in the bay not at the dock. I said, we crawl, walk, then run. I continued with, in order to OPERATE a boat, you first must RUN the boat. She did not see the difference.
To me, when you run the boat you call the shots, you check safety equipment prior to leaving the dock, electronics, do the radio check etc, check the bilge, fuel level, start the motor. She goes yeah thats too much to do, forget it.
I said no way you are going to learn. So we spent an hour going over EVERYTHING for the little boat. She turned on the GPS (for speed), she did her radio check, she primed the bulb and started the motor. When it came time to undoing the lines, she just took them off the cleat and threw them up on the dock. I walked back and turned the motor off and gave her a lesson on how to put the lines on the dock so when we come back they are right there. She told me I was anal.
Oh well.. She will get it one of these days.
Yes your are anal and are taking the fun out of it. She doesn't want to be captain she just wants to steer a little . You don't need a masters license to be a helmsman.
The shutting off of the motor because you forgot to instruct her on where the lines were to be placed was also over the top IMHO.
Let her have fun, if she likes it she will naturally want to expand her capabilities and practice docking and getting underway.
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| Mike |
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Homeport: Edgewater, MD
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BoatCrazy
RO# 30843
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:51:08
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I didnt forget to tell her where to put the lines.
I dont think I am taking the fun out of it. Operating a boat needs to be taken seriously. Once you get the basics done, then you can have fun operating.
I know silly me for being anal to check my safety equipment, and making sure my electronics are working.
So going by your logic, I should (when he is of age) let my nephew just jump behind the wheel of a car and let him "have fun" Shouldnt you teach the basics like checking tires, mirrors, lights etc before he gets to "have fun" Same thing with the boat...
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| "It is what it is and it aint what it aint" |
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Homeport: Long Beach NY
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EdFitz
RO# 32779
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:54:17
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I have no rules. I do whatever I want.
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Ed
2001 Bayliner Ciera 245 |
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Homeport: OC, MD
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Robski97
RO# 7334
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:54:24
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Nobody moves and no body TALKS ! I see boats with people on the swim platform and Bow . Now thats an accident waiting to happen.
If its not my home port and My mate throws u a line u better not FING pull on that line or ur going to get ur ass reamed !
Ahhh
Rob
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| 2006 44 Sundancer |
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Homeport: Merrick, NY
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adru
RO# 19517
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 07:57:50
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One thing I had to make clear to my wife when backing into our slip is NEVER JUMP TO THE DOCK, not even a little jump. If you can't step off, stay on board.
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| "Life is a journey which is always most interesting when you don’t know where you’re going." |
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Homeport: Branford, CT
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vided
RO# 29659
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 Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:01:03
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i only go as fast as i want to hit
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1961, size 9, white keds
We're not to judge all Muslims by the acts of a few "crazies," but the acts of a few American crazies is enough to judge all Americans who own guns. |
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Homeport: croton on hudson, ny
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BoatCrazy
RO# 30843
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:07:01
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Rob, good point about pulling the line. People do not realize that, that will throw off your whole course of action.
Great point as well, if you cannot step off, then you are going to stay on the boat.
I was taught, slow and stead wins the race
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| "It is what it is and it aint what it aint" |
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Homeport: Long Beach NY
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Billylll
RO# 24494
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:14:57
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Rob, funny but I agree my wife and I have a routine we generally need no help or conversation while docking. My brother in law and the wife's sister came for a boat ride un-announced last year. Strike one, they are good people but the 1st thing that rubbed me wrong was they both boarded the boat with black soled riding boots, black marks all over the swim platform and cockpit before I could ask them to remove their riding boots. I'm not a no shoes person but come on black heel marks and slippery footwear? Next we went out for a couple hous cruise in the Ocean after I instructed everyone on safety, showing them the locations of the life presservers and safety equipment and what to do if there is a MOB or fire ect..... \.
All goes very well until we return to the dock I turn my head as I am swinging my bow 180 degrees with the swim platform inches away from the main floating dock and I see my BIL jump over the cockpit onto the platform and then take a big step onto the dock. I put the boat in neutral and just gave him the look. Yes he had the black riding boots back on and the rear platform was wet. Once we tied up I asked him to think about what would have happened if he slipped and the boats props amputated his legs? They haven't been back to the boat since this episode. I'm glad I dont need people onboard that put me into a liability situation or that don't listen. I'm still PO'ed at his carnaval like manuver when I was spinning the boat. I only took my eyes off him for a few seconds. At least he didn't slip and I didn't have to deal with a wrongful death or injury suit.
Bill
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WirelessOne,
40 Mainship
Sedan Bridge
Little Egg, N.J. |
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Homeport: Tuckerton, N.J.
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walterv
RO# 12640
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:28:36
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Gees,
I'm still learning to dock my boat :)
If the person(s) on my boat are boaters, they usually ask what they want me to have them do, then I tell them. Same is true with my kids and wife. Non-boaters, please, just sit and don't move till were tied up. I also request no talking to me while I am trying to dock (key word her is trying :)). I have learned to shut down my ears and not listen to anybody, the boat
or on the dock.
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And always remember, life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by those moments that take our breath away.
George Carlin |
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Homeport:
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walterv
RO# 12640
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:32:18
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Billy,
My wife and I always talk prior to docking, its not like, 95% 0f the time,its gonna be the same conversation, I guess I just like to talk and be sure we are all on the same page.
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And always remember, life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by those moments that take our breath away.
George Carlin |
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Homeport:
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jrpar
RO# 11343
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:36:26
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I was really anal about noise, people seated etc. but have relaxed a bit over the years.
Still a few basics apply...
-No one reaches for anything unless instructed.
-Lines are NOT to be tossed to anyone unless I say so (dock attendant skills vary too much)
-No one is on the aft deck/swim platform until I'm done manuevering.
-Keep the aisles clear in case I need to move quickly to the bow or stern.
When operating with someone who I've "trained": GF, son/daughter, etc.
I do use them for certain tasks that I know we've covered off previously.
Since I've been single-handing for so long, it's harder to think of how to use others than to just put'er in myself.
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Homeport: Palm Coast, FL
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SLW
RO# 2186
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:45:40
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quote:
Originally posted by mdoherty
quote:
Originally posted by BoatCrazy
The GF said to me a few weeks ago that she wants to learn how to run the boat. I said no problem.
We loaded up the small boat and I stood at the front of the boat and said OK, start going through the procedures. She sees me do it a million times, and she replies with, NO NO I want to run the boat in the bay not at the dock. I said, we crawl, walk, then run. I continued with, in order to OPERATE a boat, you first must RUN the boat. She did not see the difference.
To me, when you run the boat you call the shots, you check safety equipment prior to leaving the dock, electronics, do the radio check etc, check the bilge, fuel level, start the motor. She goes yeah thats too much to do, forget it.
I said no way you are going to learn. So we spent an hour going over EVERYTHING for the little boat. She turned on the GPS (for speed), she did her radio check, she primed the bulb and started the motor. When it came time to undoing the lines, she just took them off the cleat and threw them up on the dock. I walked back and turned the motor off and gave her a lesson on how to put the lines on the dock so when we come back they are right there. She told me I was anal.
Oh well.. She will get it one of these days.
Yes your are anal and are taking the fun out of it. She doesn't want to be captain she just wants to steer a little . You don't need a masters license to be a helmsman.
The shutting off of the motor because you forgot to instruct her on where the lines were to be placed was also over the top IMHO.
Let her have fun, if she likes it she will naturally want to expand her capabilities and practice docking and getting underway.
I agree completely. She might eventually "get it", but she could also "get tired of boating". Make sure your mate enjoys the boat - while you still have both a mate and a boat!
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Homeport: Cedar Pt, Oh / Mi / Miami
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Robski97
RO# 7334
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 08:55:40
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All great points . Its funny when people come on the boat for the first time ( and I hate visitors . those that know me can atest ) The HEAD conversation is the very first instruction given. NOTHING , I REPEAT NOTHING other then what came out of u and Toilet paper go in the head !
And yes U come with black sole shoes ur banned for life .
Rob
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| 2006 44 Sundancer |
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Homeport: Merrick, NY
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KiDa
RO# 16492
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 09:03:45
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quote:
Originally posted by Robski97
If its not my home port and My mate throws u a line u better not FING pull on that line or ur going to get ur ass reamed !
Ahhh
Rob
Note: Avoid at all cost or be an extremely active participant in all Robski dockings depending upon sexual proclivities.
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____________
Best Regards,
David
Saint Max
'99 330 Sundancer
==========
Capitalism is to this administration what Judaism was to the Third Reich.
-- Me |
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Homeport: Hopewell, VA
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stmbtwle
RO# 7934
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 09:16:02
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Agree... you really need to let her learn a little at a time, at her own speed, depending on whether or not you want her to stick around.
Not likely YOU learned in a day, either. I sure didn't.
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| Willie. She's a tired old barge but she's paid for! |
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Homeport: Tampa Bay, FL
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CurrentSea
RO# 10265
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 09:17:09
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Rob, speaking of black soled shoes, watch the black bottom flip flops on the plasdeck.
When they get hot, they stick to the plasdeck and turn it black.
It cleans up easily with soap and a good brush though.
I always do the head speach to every new person, but I specifically say "No Tampons or Napkins"!
I spent one weekend pulling strings and cotton out of the duckbills, need I say more!
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2009 Regal 4080
Volvo Diesel IPS |
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Homeport: Anchorage YC - Lindenhurst, NY
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wezie
RO# 32638
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 09:23:24
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Depending on folks on the dock or "guests" is not a plan. Learn how to dock YOUR boat, explain to your guests what you want them to do. Takes two or three tries OK.
Rob if you throw me a line, and if I pick it up, you give calm and proper instructions or I will do what I want with it. Might even throw it back.
The one I liked last week was the outboard powered sailboat trying to get out of the docks. No one helping control the boat, hitting other boats, and yelling to folks to Fend Off their 7000 lb. boat. No thanks!
I help, but have learned to be more cautious. We can fix boats, not people.
Your Boat,
You Bought It,
You Brag About It,
You Operate It Properly!
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Homeport: TX
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Robski97
RO# 7334
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 09:52:30
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LOL.. a particular instance was in my head when i was writing my post. ITs all good !
Rob
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| 2006 44 Sundancer |
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Homeport: Merrick, NY
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Ghost
RO# 689
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 10:45:45
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I've learned a couple things over the years. The key I think is to realize that your choice of language must be altered when giving commands that make the difference between safety and close calls. I note in the original post seemingly innocuous terms such as "I want".
The hardest trick for me was to realize that in polite conversation, my impression of what I "asked" often turned out to be interpreted differently by the receiver more often than I thought was reasonable. The point being that in polite conversation, we often use terms like "I'd prefer", or "I would ask you", "I need you" or other such terms that are fine in situation where safety is not at risk. We simply can't grant the listener latitude to use inexperienced judgement when lubbers have such a gap of what is "safe" due to learning bad habits on small boats over time. Instead, use terms such as "you must not", "never", "I don't allow". Say it politely, but confidently and take the time to have a safety discussion before leaving the dock where you explain your rules and where the safety gear is located.
I've had much fewer examples of crew mutiny since changing my language. That and as I've become confident in most maneuvers, I don't ask for help from the crew and my briefing rule is "don't act unless you have been given a specific task, the exception is if you see an individual in danger, not an object".
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| What part of GALE WARNING did you not understand? |
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Homeport: Everett Wa
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rawidman
RO# 25110
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 10:53:20
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My docking policy?
If you can walk away and there is no damage, it's a good docking!
Seriously, we seldom have anyone else on board so I drive from the flybridge and toss a bow or spring line, my wife tosses a stern line from the cockpit. If there is nobody on the dock to help, I have to get close enough for her to step off onto the dock with the stern line and I'll toss her the bow or springline from the flybridge.
If we have boat owner friends on board, I might assign them a duty and they will understand it. Non boating guests - stay seated, don't do anything unless asked.
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Ron
2000 Camano Troll |
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Homeport: Charleston, SC
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JVM225
RO# 28365
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 11:40:03
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My rule is that anyone not actively involved in the docking stay out of the way. If I have someone aboard that can be a help, I let them know how they can help before we reach the dock.
If it is someone who thinks they can help I politely tell them that "I've got it".
If it is someone that I know can't help I ask them to step in to the cabin until I'm tied up.
I dock alongside a bulkhead in my home slip and have a friend who knows nothing about cause and effect. When I pull alongside my slip he insists on grabbing something to pull my stern sharply in to the dock. What he doesn't realize is that it causes my bow to swing wildly away from the dock.
I've learned that the secret to easy docking in my home slip is to control the center of the boat and get the line on that center cleat first. I've got a great system for doing it by myself, and an even better one for when I have a capable mate.
This same friend one time gave me a "shove off" when I was pulling out of a slip at Tobay. He sharply pushed the side of the boat he was standing near, what he didn't realize is that it caused my bow to swing sharply to the opposite side.
Thankfully he is taking a break from boating right now.
I do appreciate when a person standing on the dock comes over to catch a line, and always try to do the same when I see someone else coming in. Sometimes it isn't needed, but other times it is a great help, and it's always good manners.
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87 Sea Ray, 30' Sundancer
Merri Mack
MMSI #338122779
95 Eastern 22'
C6 Corvette Convertible
68 GTO
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Edited by - JVM225 on Jul 19 2012 11:43:06 |
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Homeport: Farmingdale NY
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In the know
RO# 20824
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 11:43:10
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My policy is simple. I tell them to sit still, and please do not move side to side. If anyone is in my sight lines, I ask them to move.
If there are people on the dock, they are ignored. While their intentions are no doubt good, we/I have a routine and it gets followed.
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The enemy of society - the HUTAL |
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Homeport: The Ocean State
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PascalG
RO# 12212
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 11:45:54
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I dont understand the logic behind stepping off an untied boat holding a line... Sooner or later someone will slip and end up in the drink. Stern lines are rarely the first line we secure, it s almost always a spring. While you can often spring off a stern line, it s a lot harder to get the stern/covkpit close enough to do it safely. It s a lot easier to approach at an angle, have someone near the bow handle the spring from the boat, and then use the spring to get along side.
My policy is nobody gets off the boat until the boat is tied to the dock.
And when leaving, nobody on the dock while lines are untied. Lines are always doubled up back to the boat and untied from the boat.
As to teaching, you need to take it step by step. Start with having her drive the boat in open water and learn basic ROR, maintaining heading, etc. then teach her how to come in channels and close quarters handling. Then how to leave the dock and finally docking. Procedures can be taught along the way but stick to the basics and add things along the way
I have learned to become careful when using boaters/friends as their way of docking may be different from mine. For instance when backing into a slip, If you tell someone to first secure the springs and they end up grabbing the bow lines first because that s what they are used to, you may end up into the dock. Or if coming along side you ask for a spring to be secured and your buddy jumps on the dock then holds the line in his hand as he does on his small boat, his help his useless
Part of my briefing always include clear instruction not to go on the swim platform until told it s ok and the gate is open. Also, no trying to push or fend off on pilings as so many folks try to! I try to be tolerant and let people move around while docking, most folks realize which way you are looking or moving and stay out of the way
One last item on my docking policy is to lower the music... I want to be able to hear the engines and the trannies engaging and disengaging. It may sound trivial but it helps especially with short throw electronic controls
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Pascal
1970 Hatteras 53 MY
26' Starfish sloop
12' Westphal Catboat
16' Hobie Cat
13' Sandbarhopper
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Homeport: Miami, FL
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CurrentSea
RO# 10265
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 11:46:11
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My best docking story was the first time we had my 24' and we went somewhere and docked stern in.
I said to admiral grab a line and throw it to the guy on the dock.
So she grabbed a nice coiled up line and threw it to the guy on the dock.
Guess I should of specified to tie it to cleat first!!!!
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2009 Regal 4080
Volvo Diesel IPS |
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Homeport: Anchorage YC - Lindenhurst, NY
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KiDa
RO# 16492
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 12:19:36
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95% of my boating is single handed. Like Pascal, I spring off everything. The places I go that have a strong current have dock masters that know what they are doing and that makes it a bit easier. I'm in the center dock of my home marina and pretty deep down the fairway so even in a tough wind and tide situation, once I'm past the first couple of boats a great deal of the problem is blocked.
The 5% of the time I have others aboard they are boaters and for the most part know to sit down and shut up. If things get out of hand due to alcohol consumption on the part of the guests, there is one friend (taught me a lot about docking) I can always count on to say, "It's his boat to crash as he wants. Now sit the farque down, shut the farque up and let's see how this turns out."
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____________
Best Regards,
David
Saint Max
'99 330 Sundancer
==========
Capitalism is to this administration what Judaism was to the Third Reich.
-- Me |
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Homeport: Hopewell, VA
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L. Keith
RO# 1615
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 12:29:20
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I have never understood people that pull alongside and/or back into a slip and then just throw the bitter end of a line to some Joe standing on the dock and expect that Joe to know what to do with that line. I really don't understand people that do the throw at Joe and then get pi$$ed.
Attend my deckhand school (New Yorkers not allowed) and I'll teach you how to:
1) Splice a three strand line with a large eye at one end that will open when the line is thrown.
2) Set your dock lines up, prior to arrival, under your hand rails/life lines, not made fast to anything with sufficient free line to allow you to throw the mooring line and ring your intended target.
3) Once your mooring line is secured to the dock pile/cleat/bollard, retrieve the slack and make several turns on the vessel cleat/bitt and to stand by for calm, normal tone, specific, oral instruction to slack, take-in or make fast.
4) Double your mooring lines so that upon departure, you let go the lines from the boat and pull the slack back aboard, so that nobody has to leave the boat.
5) Coil your mooring line, allow it to air dry and to stow it below deck ready for the next use.
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Homeport: N. Gulf of Mexico
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PeteMrrs
RO# 4125
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 12:35:27
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BC;
While the GF may eventually "get it", one thing is certain, at some point she will become frustrated and then you won't be "getting it". Im telling you from experience.
Do yourself a favor, and have someone else teach her how to handle the boat. You are to close to the situation, and you want her to do things your way. You will both find that there is more than one way to achieve the same results and your relationship will not suffer.
My wife can handle ou 32' under all scenarios, and best of all one of my friends taught her and if I was even on board during the lessons, I did not speak.
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| If you are not enjoying every single day, you are just depleting the oxygen supply for the rest of us! |
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Homeport: Osprey Marina, Myrtle Beach SC
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KiDa
RO# 16492
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 12:57:05
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quote:
Originally posted by PeteMrrs
BC;
While the GF may eventually "get it", one thing is certain, at some point she will become frustrated and then you won't be "getting it". Im telling you from experience.
Do yourself a favor, and have someone else teach her how to handle the boat. You are to close to the situation, and you want her to do things your way. You will both find that there is more than one way to achieve the same results and your relationship will not suffer....
Sage wisdom.
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Best Regards,
David
Saint Max
'99 330 Sundancer
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Capitalism is to this administration what Judaism was to the Third Reich.
-- Me |
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Homeport: Hopewell, VA
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Dusty Rhoads
RO# 10868
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 12:57:55
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The Admiral and I have a pretty basic routine, and normally require no help. I discuss to her what my intensions are away from the home dock, but being away dosen't always agree with my intensions, so I have come across that evil eye from the bow on occasions. She controls the bow with a remote thruster, and has come to know what that does to the stern for me.
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| Dusty "Moon River" |
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Homeport: Annapolis, MD
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Billylll
RO# 24494
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 13:22:44
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quote:
Originally posted by PascalG
I dont understand the logic behind stepping off an untied boat holding a line... Sooner or later someone will slip and end up in the drink. Stern lines are rarely the first line we secure, it s almost always a spring. While you can often spring off a stern line, it s a lot harder to get the stern/covkpit close enough to do it safely. It s a lot easier to approach at an angle, have someone near the bow handle the spring from the boat, and then use the spring to get along side.
My policy is nobody gets off the boat until the boat is tied to the dock.
And when leaving, nobody on the dock while lines are untied. Lines are always doubled up back to the boat and untied from the boat.
As to teaching, you need to take it step by step. Start with having her drive the boat in open water and learn basic ROR, maintaining heading, etc. then teach her how to come in channels and close quarters handling. Then how to leave the dock and finally docking. Procedures can be taught along the way but stick to the basics and add things along the way
I have learned to become careful when using boaters/friends as their way of docking may be different from mine. For instance when backing into a slip, If you tell someone to first secure the springs and they end up grabbing the bow lines first because that s what they are used to, you may end up into the dock. Or if coming along side you ask for a spring to be secured and your buddy jumps on the dock then holds the line in his hand as he does on his small boat, his help his useless
Part of my briefing always include clear instruction not to go on the swim platform until told it s ok and the gate is open. Also, no trying to push or fend off on pilings as so many folks try to! I try to be tolerant and let people move around while docking, most folks realize which way you are looking or moving and stay out of the way
One last item on my docking policy is to lower the music... I want to be able to hear the engines and the trannies engaging and disengaging. It may sound trivial but it helps especially with short throw electronic controls
Pascal I sure as heck don't understand what my BIL was thinking when he did what he did however I was just showing that in a few seconds almost anything can happen and you or I as the captains are the people that would be responsible or held accountable if or when the an idiot doesn't listen. My BIL has not been welcome on the boat since the incident even though we are good friends and I owe him some huge favors for his financial help when I needed it and emotional help getting through family deaths and illnesses. George is a fantastic guy but he sure as heck didn't listen to my instructions and until he acknowledges his F-up he isn't allowed on the boat.
Again all I was doing was giving an example of sh&t that happens if you blink, even after giving clear instructions that seemed to be clear to my wife, her sister and myself.
Bill
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WirelessOne,
40 Mainship
Sedan Bridge
Little Egg, N.J. |
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Homeport: Tuckerton, N.J.
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Billylll
RO# 24494
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 13:27:19
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Rob, I don't mind visitors, I have met many BE members that came by just to say hello or meet me. If I'm not prepared for them or had plan's to leave the boat or take my wife out to dinner I excuse myself and move on. I hope they didn't leave with the impression that I was ignorant, just that they showed up unannounced and I had already made plans. I have enjoyed the company of everyone I have ever met through BE.
Bill
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WirelessOne,
40 Mainship
Sedan Bridge
Little Egg, N.J. |
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Homeport: Tuckerton, N.J.
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Ghost
RO# 689
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 13:40:17
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Most important rule to communicate in advance, multiple times, for anyone handling any line (because they don't get to the dock unless someone hands it in the first place), is that they are NEVER to take instructions from the shore. Never.
The only thing worse than well meaning bystanders, are well meaning bystanders giving orders. NO can do.
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| What part of GALE WARNING did you not understand? |
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Homeport: Everett Wa
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BoatCrazy
RO# 30843
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 16:13:04
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Im shocked that you guys would rather let someone run the boat before they are familiar with the systems etc...Its exactly like letting a teenager drive on a park way before he or she knows how to adjust the mirrors, start the car etc...
This isnt going to affect my relationship with the GF. She will get it, and has gotten a lot better. I couldnt get down to the boat today, so she went down for me and checked it and turned the bilge on to make sure the float switch did its job.
Believe me, itll take a lot more then me turning the boat off for me "not to be getting it"
Anyways, I never understood the whole lets push off when we are in a slip idea. What exactly are you pushing off of???
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| "It is what it is and it aint what it aint" |
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Homeport: Long Beach NY
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PascalG
RO# 12212
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 16:23:58
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if you are on the boat, she is not "running" the boat, she is just a crew member standing watch, a helmsman. or helmsperson I guess...
a crew standing watch or steering doens't need to know everythin about the vessel. sure it's better if they do, and they will learn new things every day, but you as the captain are still on board to take over or handle any traffic, navigation or mechanical issues.
"push off in the slip"? many people dont' understand that the rub rails are made to rub on wooden piling and will rush to push the boat of the piling. it's not only funny when they try to push 100k lbs against a wind or current, but it's also dangerous.
"turned the bilge on to make sure the float switch did its job." how do you turn a bilge? if you mean switch, they should be left on...
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Pascal
1970 Hatteras 53 MY
26' Starfish sloop
12' Westphal Catboat
16' Hobie Cat
13' Sandbarhopper
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Homeport: Miami, FL
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Laguna Al
RO# 15865
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 16:32:21
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My system is pretty simple, and I am lucky in that my girl-friend and I work very well together when it comes to boating. She did not have prior boating experience before we met five years ago, so in that time she has learned from the way I do things. As we are pulling in we discuss the plan: which side we will dock on, bow-in or stern-in, and most importantly which side the spring line goes on. She sets the lines and tends the spring. Once we are snugged up, she grabs the bow line and steps off, and I grab the stern line that is usually crossed from the outboard side and resting on the helm seat behind me, so I can step off with it. Then we secure additional lines as needed. If there are people on the dock offering to help, she always checks with me before tossing a line. I usually smile and politely decline. If **** starts to hit the fan, I abort and start my approach fresh, rather than worrying about someone on the dock holding a line. Last time I had a dock-hand catch a line, he wrapped it around a piling to "stop" the boat from moving forward. It stopped the boat abruptly and kicked the stern out (it was a breast line). I corrected the issue and told him to slacken the line so I could pull further into the slip, and that I "got it from here." As I pulled up again, he did the same exact thing, trying to prevent me from moving forward anymore...he didn't realize that it was an intentional move so the stern wouldn't be sticking out into the tight fairway, current, and traffic.
When we have guests on the boat who are not regulars, I have them sit tight and relax, and make it clear that we have it under control and not to "push off" of anything. When we have regulars, I delegate a line to each and have everyone else sit down. My girlfriend always handles the spring line and no one "jumps" off the boat until she has it secured. Once that line is secured, she steps off the boat and the others simply hand her the lines. I always stress that there is no need the "throw" the lines. There is nothing worse than standing on the dock with your arm out stretched, and ending up with a coil of 1/2" or 3/4" line slapping you in the face.
It is nice to have one person to count on whom you work well with. It takes the stress out of any situation and allows you to maintain control without barking orders to everyone on board. I always want people to feel welcome and have a good time on the boat, I don't want them to feel like they are in the way or being barked at. I don't mind being "anal" or "OCD," but I don't want to be a grouch. It can be tricky when you have a bunch of boaters on board who all feel that they should help, but I find that once you demonstrate some competence they are less reluctant to back off and let you do your thing.
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Edited by - Laguna Al on Jul 19 2012 16:38:10 |
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Homeport: Great Lakes
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BoatCrazy
RO# 30843
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 16:34:50
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They dont call them rub rails for nothing...
Im supposed to leave my bilge pump on all the time on my little boat? If I left the switch "on" then that would turn the bilge on which would end up frying the bilge pump, and would kill the battery..
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| "It is what it is and it aint what it aint" |
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Homeport: Long Beach NY
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Laguna Al
RO# 15865
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 16:58:42
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My girl-friend has expressed interest in running the boat, as well. I find it easier to teach her in steps instead of bombarding her information every time we go out. For example, when she showed interest, I showed her one day what I was doing to start up the boat...Where to turn the batteries on and which to select, putting the keys in and turning them on, turning the ignition switches, putting the outboards down, turning on the electronics, starting the engines, and checking the gauges while they warm up. Then I let her do it on her own. The first few times I double checked to ensure everything was done correctly, and answered her questions as she went along to reassure her. Now she has it down to a science.
I really want her to be able to run the boat and dock the boat in case of an emergency, so I have been encouraging her every now and then to take it a step further by backing out of the slip. She backed out of the slip once but did not feel comfortable in tight quarters, despite me being right next to her. Rather than push it, I just let her develop her confidence and learn on her own terms. Once in a while when we are out in the middle of the lake, I will have her take the helm and hold a course at a slow speed while I fiddle with some electronics or duck down into the head. When she is at the help with me, we talk about ROR or landmarks. I want her to build confidence in running the boat, but I don't want to push all of the systems and everything on her all at once because then it takes the fun out of being out there. And we all know that you don't learn everything at once, especially on the water. Instead, you learn through experience and exposure.
So far, she is an ace at handling lines. She can start up all of the systems on the boat and start the engines. She knows how the controls work. While she is not quite comfortable using the controls, she has done it and could do it in an emergency. She can steer and hold a course. And she can find a report our vessel position. She is becoming more and more familiar with ROR and understands etiquette and safety. I want her to learn and I am encouraging her to take control of the boat, but I don't want to bombard her with information and make every outing a learning experience, otherwise it will take the fun out of it for her (which will take the fun out for me).
So far, our relationship hasn't suffered. 
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Edited by - Laguna Al on Jul 19 2012 17:00:01 |
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Homeport: Great Lakes
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PascalG
RO# 12212
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 17:11:02
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quote:
Originally posted by BoatCrazy
They dont call them rub rails for nothing...
Im supposed to leave my bilge pump on all the time on my little boat? If I left the switch "on" then that would turn the bilge on which would end up frying the bilge pump, and would kill the battery..
Don't you have a float switch?
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Pascal
1970 Hatteras 53 MY
26' Starfish sloop
12' Westphal Catboat
16' Hobie Cat
13' Sandbarhopper
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Homeport: Miami, FL
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BoatCrazy
RO# 30843
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 17:13:14
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Absolutely. The GF went down to check that the float switch worked. By turning on the switch, you can hear the bilge pump kick on, if it doesnt pump water then the float switch worked...
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| "It is what it is and it aint what it aint" |
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Homeport: Long Beach NY
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walterv
RO# 12640
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 19:05:29
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I have a new boat this season, my friends at the dock kind of get I am a little overwhelmed here. We frequently go to Watch Hill, so one of my friends sees me coming in, jumps on the bow of one of the boats that I am pulling next to and just hangs loose. In other words, says nothing, but positions himself in the event I need him. He just was there, nothing said, but was ready. I love that!!!!!
He asked me after a safe landing if this was ok what he did,my answer was, "would not want it any other way"
He did it everything perfect, the same as I would!!!
Thanks Rob!!!!
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And always remember, life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by those moments that take our breath away.
George Carlin |
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Homeport:
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Billylll
RO# 24494
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 19:56:14
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Pascal I understand BC's bilge pump switch is like my multiple lighted switches they override the float switch and only light when the bilge pump comes on (in any position). They only need to be activated to bypass a non working float switch.
Bill
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WirelessOne,
40 Mainship
Sedan Bridge
Little Egg, N.J. |
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Homeport: Tuckerton, N.J.
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Robski97
RO# 7334
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 20:53:51
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Anything for u pal ! Walt you got the new boat down pat ! Time to give urself some credit . You got way more patience then I
Rob
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| 2006 44 Sundancer |
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Homeport: Merrick, NY
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JVM225
RO# 28365
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 21:17:46
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quote:
Originally posted by walterv
I have a new boat this season, my friends at the dock kind of get I am a little overwhelmed here. We frequently go to Watch Hill, so one of my friends sees me coming in, jumps on the bow of one of the boats that I am pulling next to and just hangs loose. In other words, says nothing, but positions himself in the event I need him. He just was there, nothing said, but was ready. I love that!!!!!
He asked me after a safe landing if this was ok what he did,my answer was, "would not want it any other way"
He did it everything perfect, the same as I would!!!
Thanks Rob!!!!
That's a good friend. I make no bones about the fact that I am far from the best guy at docking and appreciate when help is offered like that.
Standing by ready to go if needed, but not taking things upon themselves without prior discussion, or worse yet, barking suggestions from the dock.
Having a home slip where I tie up alongside the bulkhead has sort of spoiled me. I rarely have to back in to a slip and have gotten real rusty at it. Sometimes I get right in, other times it isn't very pretty.
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87 Sea Ray, 30' Sundancer
Merri Mack
MMSI #338122779
95 Eastern 22'
C6 Corvette Convertible
68 GTO
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Homeport: Farmingdale NY
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Veebyes
RO# 11224
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 21:26:18
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18 years of singlehanding running a 32' tourboat here. The vast majority of passengers were not boaters. Instructions were to stay put until the boat is secure. It is floating on a fluid meduim not solid ground like your car. It does not have a PARK. Give me room to secure lines. Do not get in my way while docking especially if I am dealing with windy conditions. Yes, you can maybe help but only if I know that you have had the boating experience of a bluewater crossing. Being a trailerboat owner counts for nothing. I have seen boatramp follies. Not pretty.
My wife, who is a very competent boater in her own right, gets angry at me for being too independent when she is aboard.
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Homeport: Bermuda
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adru
RO# 19517
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Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 21:56:02
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"I dont understand the logic behind stepping off an untied boat holding a line..."
I assume this relates to large boats. With my 25 foot Regal I can't imagine anything safer or simpler when pulling into my floating dock than pulling the boat along the finger stepping off and attaching the dock-lines to the boat cleat. If the boat is not in position to step off it only takes minute to re-position.
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| "Life is a journey which is always most interesting when you don’t know where you’re going." |
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Homeport: Branford, CT
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What is your policy when docking
