Learn to safely and efficiently dock an auxiliary powered sailboat. Knowledge of basic auxiliary power theory, engine and steering controls, proper use of dock lines, crew communication and safety.
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- Certification: ASA 118, Docking Endorsement
- Duration: 1 day course (10:00 – 4:00 with break for lunch)
Study materials: Docking and Maneuvering Made Easy Textbook; Docking Techniques by Tom Tursi
PRACTICAL SKILLS
- Prepare a docking/undocking plan.
- Make a controlled stop alongside an object.
- Drive forward, stop, and back up, under control and in a straight line.
- Maneuver the boat in a confined space, including performing a ‘standing turn’ maneuver, turning the vessel 360 degrees using rudder position and gearshift/throttle control while remaining in a circle not exceeding two boat lengths in diameter.
- In Reverse gear, back up and stop at a dock or mooring buoy.
- Round objects in a figure-eight course in Forward gear and in Reverse gear.
- Dock alongside (a parallel dock) using wind and prop walk to advantage.
- Dock alongside with wind blowing the boat onto the dock.
- Undock from an alongside slip with the wind blowing the boat onto the dock; use spring lines to spring out the stern or the bow.
- Dock alongside with wind blowing the boat away from the dock, using an aft-led spring line.
- Undock from an alongside slip with the wind blowing the boat away from the dock, using spring lines as needed to avoid other boats berthed fore or aft.
- Dock bow first or stern first into a slip, as appropriate for conditions. Demonstrate proper use of spring lines and attachment of dock lines and fenders to secure the boat in the slip. Depart from the slip.
- Perform or simulate a Mediterranean mooring using an anchor, mooring buoy, or lazy lines.
- Coil and heave a dock line.
- Knot construction