Are you ready to face the “summer mess” of crowded ports? In these situations, knowing how to maneuver in tight spaces will allow you to get out of the way without damaging boats near you or trapping your own in others’ traps. In case you have to moor at English (at the gas station is a great classic), do you know how to properly use the spring?
Mooring at the dock using the spring
1- Slowly approach the dock with a person on the mizzen with the line in hand already attached to the center cleat.
2- As soon as the hull is sufficiently close to the dock, jump ashore and secure the spring on the bollard with one turn.
3- The boat is in neutral but keeps moving forward. By rubbing the line on the bollard you will gently stop the boat.
4- Once the boat has stopped, and the spring is secured, you can proceed with the traditional mooring lines: first the stern one.
5- Now engage forward gear, and the boat will remain parallel to the dock: securing the bowline is a breeze.
6- Remember that with only the spring armed even in case of wind from the dock you are safe. To pull over, simply engage forward gear.
