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Your Guide to Docking, from Guest Writer Merrill Charette at NauticEd

April 1, 2025

Slips – Returning

We’ve all seen that guy—the one who comes flying into the docks because the wind has picked up. His mindset? “If I go fast enough, I’ll beat the wind and get in before it carries me away.”

But what usually happens? He comes in too hot, misses the dock by just a little, and ends up getting pushed down the marina—sometimes crashing into other boats along the way.

Sure, as an onlooker it might be a little entertaining… unless your boat is in his path. Then you’re frantically fending him off. One thing’s for sure—you never want to be that guy.

Docking isn’t about brute force or speed. There’s a science to it, and in the sections below, we’ll break down how to approach different docking situations, depending on wind and positioning, so you can land every docking with confidence.

Wind coming into the slip channel and your boat is to be docked stern-to

Approach the slip channel by steering past your intended slip. Once clear, shift into reverse and begin backing into the wind. As you reverse, start turning toward your dock, making sure to counteract the prop walk early on.

Light Wind blowing into the slip channel and your boat is to be docked bow-to

Simply steering the boat into the slip works for light winds; however, the below method is safer for stronger or gusty winds.

Above, it is preferable to steer the boat up into the wind and then into the slip.

Wind blowing out of the slip channel and your boat is to be docked bow-to

Simply steer the boat into the slip.

Wind blowing out of the slip channel and your boat is to be docked stern-to. 

Begin by backing up from the main channel all the way through the slip channel and into your slip. This method often works well, even for boats with inboard drives and the effects of prop walk. As long as you maintain steady movement in reverse, the boat will generally turn in line with the wind. If this approach doesn’t work, an alternative method is outlined below.

Wind across the docks and your boat is to be docked stern-to

With stern drives and outboards, you can typically reverse from the main channel into the slip channel and directly into your slip. However, this approach is less effective for inboards, as prop walk combined with stern windage can make it difficult to turn the stern upwind.

For boats with inboard drives, you can actually use prop walk to your advantage. Enter the slip channel in forward gear, continue past your slip, then shift into reverse to make your turn in.

You’ll notice the diagram doesn’t show wind coming out of the channel—that’s intentional. As we often say, starting a docking maneuver with the bow facing into the wind is generally not recommended.

For wind coming out of the slip channel, this below may be a better approach since the wind will work to push the bow downwind and the prop walk will turn the stern upwind.

The wind blows across the dock and your boat is to be docked bow-to

The easiest way to dock is by steering straight into the slip. That said, it’s crucial to keep in mind that boats don’t stop instantly—they carry momentum. To get a better sense of how your boat behaves, practice in open water by accelerating at different speeds and then shifting into reverse. This will help you learn how your boat reacts and how much distance you need to come to a complete stop.

Conclusion

By following the approaches outlined above, you can avoid becoming that guy. While there’s real science behind docking, your friends will likely see it as an art when done smoothly.

Before you even enter the marina, take a moment to assess the conditions. Look for clues that indicate wind direction—such as flags or ripples on the water—and check that no other boats are exiting the marina as you plan to enter. Just as important, make sure your crew is clear on the docking plan.

And if you’re still feeling uncertain, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Most marinas are more than willing to assist—just give them a call or reach out on VHF. There’s no shame in asking for a hand when you need it.

For more resources in boating skills check out – 

https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses?utm_medium=website&utm_source=by