| Preparing the boat |
| 1. |
Make sure all ropes are tied on - or you won't be |
| 2. |
Have extra ropes ready for use - then there won't be any panic |
| 3. |
Have plenty of fenders tied on - at the right height |
| 4. |
Have your boat hook ready - and your deck broom! |
| 5. |
Keep your decks clear of junk - it'll save accidents |
| 6. |
Don't have your washing hanging out - it'll get in the way |
| 7. |
Have a spare fender ready to hand - it could save the day |
| 8. |
Make sure your ropes are led UNDER the guard rail - and ready |
| 9. |
Decide on the length of your rope - for the berth you're approaching |
| 10. |
Decide which rope to tie on shore first - to best secure the boat |
| |
| 10 points to bear in mind |
| 1. |
Check which way the water is flowing - ALWAYS approach into tide |
| 2. |
Consider the wind strength and direction - on shore or off |
| 3. |
Look for back eddies - watch small bits floating, where are they going? |
| 4. |
Speed of approach - keep it slow - any damage will be slight |
| 5. |
Wait and see what the boat wants to do - and agree |
| 6. |
Don't be afraid to change your mind. Keep calm - go around again |
| 7. |
Cut out unnecessary chatter - you need to concentrate |
| 8. |
Agree on your plan of action with all the crew |
| 9. |
Practice makes perfect - most of the time! |
| 10. |
And skipper, if you're not sure what you're going to do - say so! |
