Docking your new boat for the first time can be an intimidating experience. At Heyday, we want to help reduce some of the fear-factor. Wakeboard pro Dylan Miller makes boat docking for beginners easy with some great docking tips for inboard boats.
Mastering Boat Docking: Tips for Inboard Boats
Docking your inboard boat may seem tricky, especially if you're more familiar with IO or outboard boats. But fear not, we've put together some straightforward tips to make docking a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
1. Dock from the Right
Nearly all V-drive wake boats have props that spin counter-clockwise and push water over a rudder to provide directional control. Because of the prop’s rotation when backing up, the stern will move to starboard (right) and drivers can use this tendency to help make boat docking easy. We recommend docking to your boat’s right side whenever possible because that’s on the driver’s side where visibility is better and it also takes advantage of the V-drive’s handling tendencies.
2. Ensure Adequate Protection
Before you approach the dock, check if there are enough cushions and bumpers in place. If not, consider adding some to the side of your boat. These extras can help prevent damage to your boat in case anything goes awry during docking.
3. Approach at an Angle
Rather than heading straight for the dock, try approaching it at a slight angle. This approach allows for better control of your boat's speed and direction.
4. Maintain a Slow and Steady Pace
Never attempt to dock your boat at a speed you wouldn't be comfortable crashing it. To maintain control, shift your boat in and out of gear from neutral every few seconds. Continuous gear engagement can lead to excessive speed, raising the risk of accidents.
5. Utilize Reverse When 20 Feet Away
When you're approximately 20 feet from the dock, engage the boat in reverse and adjust the throttle accordingly. This action will cause the back end of your boat to swing to the right, which is the preferred direction for most inboard boats when backing up. The objective is to bring your boat to a complete stop just as it aligns smoothly with the dock.
6. Exit Safely
Once your boat is securely docked and stationary, it's time to disembark. Turn off the ignition, remove your safety lanyard, and exit the boat safely. Always prioritize safety when leaving the boat.
This method is one of the safest and most straightforward ways to approach docking with your inboard boat. With practice, you'll build confidence in your docking skills, enhancing your enjoyment on the water.
Bonus Tip: DOCKING A BOAT IN WINDY CONDITIONS
Scenario 1: Wind is pushing the boat toward the dock
Pull up parallel a few feet from the dock and let it push the boat the rest of the way in.
Scenario 2: Wind is pushing the boat away from the dock
Approach at a steeper, almost vertical angle and secure the bow line. Then, turn the wheel to the right, shift into reverse and the stern will pivot toward the dock gently. If the wind is howling, after securing the bow line, turn the wheel to the left and put the gearshift into forward and the engine will gently push the stern to the dock.
We hope these tips make handling docking situations a breeze. Have a great time boating, and we look forward to seeing you on the water!
For more advice from Dylan, read his beginner wakeboarding tips with Heyday pro wakeboarder, Carro Djupsjö.
