Docking Bow in; starboard side; starboard wind and current

[mjohnh]

These posts are, hopefully, somewhat entertaining to the more experienced.

My dock is perpendicular to seawall; I have to dock on the starboard side (Bow in); there is a starboard current and frequently starboard wind.

I find that I do not have much rudder control at low speed. My goal is always to get within about 1/4 of the length of the dock and about 3 feet from the dock before I reverse to slow down; then neutral. However, without rudder control and no power the stern gets pushed away from the dock while I can hold the bow close with bow thruster. (If I had a dock for the port side, it would be much easier as I could use the current/wind to carry me into the dock)

Anyone with any suggestions? Has anyone installed stern thrusters on the 28 TE?

[Nancy]

Docking can be challenging even for the experienced.

Are you using spring lines when docked? One leading forward from your midship cleat and one leading aft? Does the loop fasten to the midship cleat with the bitter ends tied to the dock?

I would try leaving those spring lines on the dock when going out. When you return, pick them up with a boat hook or direct someone on the dock to hand you those lines first. It sounds like it will be easier to get the forward on first if you have to make a choice. Once that one is in place, you should be able to back down against it and with any luck, the stern will swing in. Worst case is you have to snag the aft spring line with a boat hook.

Get a spring line on first. Everything else will fall into place.

If you're new to boat handling, it can be really helpful to find someone to coach you a few times.

[mjohnh]

I'm a newbie...for sure......but, I think your suggestion is excellent and I can visualize what you mean......will give it a try.

[Nancy]

You're very welcome. Let us know how it goes.

If you can get the forward spring on first, then, with the engine in neutral, use the bow thruster to push the bow to port. That will swing the stern toward the dock. You can also bump the engine into reverse for 1-2 seconds, then back to neutral.