Investing some time upfront in learning how to properly dock your boat will save you from potential embarrassment and calamity down the line when you’re out on the water. A few general tips to keep in mind as you head out onto those placid Florida waters:
Don’t approach any pier at a rate faster than you’re willing to hit it; if you do ram the dock with your boat, it should be gentle enough as to cause no damage.
Pause before turning off the engine; it’s crucial to wait until all of your lines are secure to kill the engine, as you never know if the boat may need more maneuvering.
Don’t be too embarrassed to start over; don’t worry about the gawking crowd; if the wind is forcing you into an awkward position to dock the boat, try pulling away from the dock and trying your approach again.
When you join a community like the Jax Boat Club in Jacksonville, you’ll gain access to a professional roster of experts and fellow boaters who can share tips and insights on the best ways to properly bring a boat in for landing.
To learn more about all things boating in Jacksonville and northern Florida, visit the community of water lovers and boaters at the Jax Boat Club.