Docks, Moorings and Marinas

For safety reasons and to avoid possible property damage, maintain a minimal speed (just enough to maintain headway and steering) when operating your personal watercraft near areas where boats are moored or docked. Traffic congestion in these areas calls for even more alertness on your part.

Unlike larger powerboats, PWCs are often beached. Below on the left are docking guidelines for boats. On the right are PWC specific guidelines. You can see how they contrast and compare.

1. Without wind or current: Approach the dock slowly at a 10 to 20 degree angle. Have fenders and mooring lines ready. If someone is on the dock throw them your bow line and have it secured.

2. With wind or current from the dock: Use a sharper approach angle. Secure the bow line and use the engine to swing the stern in.

3. With wind or current toward the dock: Approach parallel to the dock and allow the wind and current to push the vessel to the dock.

4. Into the wind or current: This is not recommended but if necessary, use a slow speed and a shallow angle. Be ready to use reverse to stop and maintain your position. In this case, secure your stern line first.