Guide to Docking Your Boat

There are many tasks you’ll need to learn when you first get a boat. One of the more challenging jobs you’ll have to master is how to dock your boat at a marina without damaging it. If you’re careful and you follow these guidelines, you should be able to get your boat docked in no time.

Slow Down & Look Ahead

The adage “never approach a dock faster than you want to hit it” is said often by seasoned boaters who wish to give advice to novices. Slow your speed down significantly as you approach a marina, but don’t stop completely. You’ll need some speed to get your boat into the slip, but not so much speed that you crash into a pier. 

Also, while you’re slowing down during your approach, scan the area around where you plan to dock so that you can avoid any obstacles, boats, or people in the water.

Have Your Ropes Ready

Make sure that you’ve got your ropes or bungee cords ready on the deck of your boat so that you can swiftly tie the boat to the marina. You don’t want to have anything in your way, either, so you won’t trip as you secure your boat.

When you’re ready to check out boats for sale, visit one of our 16 locations to check out our amazing selection of new and used boats for sale. Tommy's Boats serves our customers in the states of California and Michigan.