Docking and Maneuvering Made Easy

Book excerpt: For centuries, sailors have noted that it's not the oceans that cause harm, but the hard bits around the edges. A parallel can be drawn to recreational sailors who are comfortable sailing in local or coastal waters but have not totally mastered the skills of returning the boat to the slip. Watching neighbors expertly guide their boats into slips and hearing them discuss terms like prop walk and spring lines, they realize there may be a gap in their knowledge. Now for the good news - this is the book you've been looking for. It is the most complete book written on everything you should know about docking your monohull or catamaran. Covering boat characteristics, environmental effects, and different scenarios, you will find a technique to safely dock your boat under any condition. Designed to be read in conjunction with American Sailing's 118 Docking Endorsement course, it is also a stand-alone book for any sailor wanting to improve boat handling skills. You will find everything you need to know in this 137-page book. - Learn why your boat handles like it does - Learn how to assess the variable effects - Learn to use external clues to assist your maneuvering - Learn to use spring lines and prop walk to your advantage - Impress your boat neighbors with your new skills - Learn to love docking