Docking can be one of the trickiest parts of boating, especially at a busy wet slip marina. The good news is that with some preparation and a calm approach, you can make docking smoother and more predictable every time.
Plan Ahead
Before you approach the marina, take a moment to get oriented. Check the wind, current, and your slip’s location. Knowing which way your boat will naturally drift can help you adjust your angle of approach. If possible, make a slow pass by the slip to visualize how you’ll enter.
Communicate with Your Crew
Whether you have one person on board or a few, assign clear roles. Let them know who will handle lines, who will place fenders, and who will step onto the dock. A quick run-through avoids confusion and helps everyone feel prepared.
Control Your Speed
As the old saying goes, never approach the dock faster than you’re willing to hit it. Move at the slowest speed possible while still maintaining control of your boat. Use short bursts of power rather than long stretches of throttle to keep things steady and responsive.
Use Fenders and Lines Early
Have fenders out before you enter the slip, not after. Position them on the side that will meet the dock. Likewise, get your dock lines ready in advance. A bow line and stern line should be easy to grab so there’s no scrambling at the last second.
Work with the Wind and Current
Instead of fighting natural forces, use them to your advantage. If the wind is pushing you toward the dock, let it help ease you in. If it’s working against you, adjust your angle of entry so you can counteract it with small steering and throttle changes.
Stay Calm and Reset if Needed
Even seasoned boaters sometimes need a second try. If your approach doesn’t feel right, there’s no shame in backing out and resetting. It’s better to take a little extra time than risk bumping the dock—or another boat.
Practice Makes Perfect
Docking is a skill that improves with repetition. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel to judge distances, use the wind, and communicate effectively with your crew.
With a little planning and patience, docking at a wet slip marina doesn’t need to be stressful. Prepare your boat, keep your cool, and remember: every successful docking builds your confidence for the next trip out.