BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

STEP 1: Ensure all passengers are seated securely with their feet and hands inside the craft.

STEP 2: Then, use the wind or current, as appropriate to the conditions:

• If there is no wind or current: Turn your boat slowly as you approach the dock at a 45° angle in order to come to a parallel resting position. If necessary, operate in reverse to control the position of your boat.
• If the wind or current is pushing your boat toward the dock (onshore wind): Approach the dock slowly at a 10° to 20° angle (you want the boat to drift toward the dock).
• If the wind or current is pushing your boat away from the dock (offshore wind): Approach the dock at a manageable speed and at an angle steeper than 45° (the angle of approach is steeper when the current is stronger).

STEP 3: Remember that your boat does not have brakes and will require a minimum distance to come to a stop. The stopping distance will also vary depending on speed, load, wind and water conditions. 

There are four key factors to keep in mind when you’re docking your boat:

• Preparation.
• Traffic.
• Wind.
• Current.  

Here’s a helpful reminder—the acronym for these words (PTWC) is the same as this memorable sentence: ‘Position The Water Craft’.