shinsr
Member
Bill,
I have been docking twin screws for well over 25 years, and although each boat reacts differently, the mechanics of it is the same. Just make sure your wheel is straight on before you start docking, and get used to the reaction time of those clutches (and on occasion, dont be afraid to use the throttles when you need some extra movement). The best advice posted above (and there is alot of good advice above), in my opinion, was that to always try to stern into the wind (and yes, facing aft is the way to do it, you will get used to it). You keep control of the boat (versus the wind controlling the boat), and it is the best way to minimize those calls to the local gel coat guy. Almost every "docking accident" I have seen (and I have heard that crunch sound too many times, and I never get used to it) has been caused by the wind taking over the momentum of the boat. While the marina's are still fairly empty in these parts, get the boat out and spend some time just picking a slip and backing down on it. Other advice I would give (thats not mentioned yet) is to not leave the helm, instruct your crew if necessary but stay at that helm and keep control of the boat. Good luck!
I have been docking twin screws for well over 25 years, and although each boat reacts differently, the mechanics of it is the same. Just make sure your wheel is straight on before you start docking, and get used to the reaction time of those clutches (and on occasion, dont be afraid to use the throttles when you need some extra movement). The best advice posted above (and there is alot of good advice above), in my opinion, was that to always try to stern into the wind (and yes, facing aft is the way to do it, you will get used to it). You keep control of the boat (versus the wind controlling the boat), and it is the best way to minimize those calls to the local gel coat guy. Almost every "docking accident" I have seen (and I have heard that crunch sound too many times, and I never get used to it) has been caused by the wind taking over the momentum of the boat. While the marina's are still fairly empty in these parts, get the boat out and spend some time just picking a slip and backing down on it. Other advice I would give (thats not mentioned yet) is to not leave the helm, instruct your crew if necessary but stay at that helm and keep control of the boat. Good luck!