How to Dock a Personal Watercraft

A Step-By-Step Guide On Docking Your Boat

The water is one of the greatest places to be, whether you soar through it on a personal watercraft, a ski-doo, a pair of jet-skis, a small boat, or any similar watercraft. Of course, the last thing you want to do is ruin your aquatic outing by crashing into the dock. For that reason, it’s important to know how to dock your watercraft correctly. Read our step-by-step guide below to learn how to ensure that your watercraft is docked perfectly each time.

Why It’s Important to Dock Correctly

Your Own Safety

It’s extremely important to prioritize safety while driving a watercraft. No matter how experienced you may be, one wrong move can compromise your safety. We’re sure this is obvious, but speeding into a dock and hoping for the best is not the right way to dock a boat.

Your Dock’s Safety

If you ram your watercraft into a dock, it might crack or leak. You may not initially notice these issues, but the dock could begin to sink when there is weight on it, which is ultimately a huge safety concern. Damage to your dock will also require expensive and irritating repairs.

Your Watercraft’s Safety

If you enjoy riding your watercraft, then you certainly care about the condition it’s kept in. Don’t let your watercraft face damage from crashing into the dock, as repairs can end up being pricey.

Important Factors To Consider

The way you dock your watercraft might change depending on two factors: wind and vehicle reversal.

Wind

The direction of the wind will alter the best course of action as you land your watercraft. Specifically, the angle at which you turn into your dock should change depending on where the wind is coming from.

● If the wind is not particularly strong or noticeable, you’ll want to go towards the dock at a 20-degree angle before steering in.

● If the wind is coming from the dock, you’ll want to approach from a wider angle, and push just a little bit harder.

● If the wind is going towards the dock, you’ll want to approach from a more shallow angle and go in reverse.

● If the wind is going to one of the sides, you’ll want to come in from a shallow angle, but do so far away.

Can Your Vehicle Thrust in Reverse?

Many docking styles are better performed by thrust in reverse, but some watercraft models cannot do this. There are a few popular approaches to docking in these cases:

● Align your craft with the dock at a fair distance, and let the small tide bring you in.

● Take a sharp turn towards the dock at a long distance, and let the boat drift toward the dock.

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Step-By-Step Docking Guide

This is a general guide to docking your boat. Operating in this order is recommended for most cases, although your individual circumstances may affect the order you choose to follow. In any event, always prioritize your safety as well as the safety of others in the water.

Approach the Wind If Possible

We’ve explained the different approaches you can take depending on the direction of the wind. Ideally, there would be no wind, as this is the easiest and least risky to navigate. The most ideal option of these is to approach the wind. This way, you don’t have to put too much pressure on the engine, and you can let the wind bring you in towards the dock.

Be Aware of Nearby Boat Traffic

Before you begin moving towards the dock, make sure you have a safe passage that won’t be interrupted by other boats. Unfortunately, it's common for boats to crash into each other, as one may think the other isn’t moving when it is actually about to dock.

Decide Where You’ll Tie Up the Boat

Tying up your boat is not optional, despite what some riders think. Watercrafts are not meant to float around in the water for days at a time, as their materials might face damage from corrosion. Pick a convenient, safe spot to tie up the boat.

Approach the Dock Slowly

Fight the urge to rush towards the dock, no matter how tempting it might be. Though you may choose to give your boat a little thrust, you should move mostly with a slow approach. Steer as carefully as possible.

Attach Boat to Dock

You’ve reached the final step. Take a sigh of relief as you carefully prepare to tie up your watercraft. If there are multiple passengers on your watercraft, let one person get off at a time. Otherwise, make sure you maintain your balance as you exit your boat.

READ MORE: Safety Tips for Pontoon Boats

By practicing proper docking techniques, you’ll protect your vehicle, your dock, and yourself. It’s never a bad idea to practice docking methods and refine your safety skills.