controlled approach to docking a boat

Using “Controlled Coasting” to Dock

Short bursts of power ensure a smooth docking experience.



Controlled Coasting Docking

The operator of the center-console boat on the left kept his boat in gear too long. With the propeller spinning, and continuing to accelerate the boat, right up until the bow was almost against the bulkhead, he had to use an inordinate amount of reverse rpm in an attempt to stop the boat without crashing. Reverse being less efficient for props than forward, his attempt failed.

On the right, we see this cruiser’s skipper has mastered the art of docking her boat using “controlled coasting.” Instead of keeping the engine in gear right up to the last second, she uses short bursts of power to maintain direction. Returning the control handle to neutral between bursts ensures that the boat is in a state of deceleration, and so can more easily be brought to a gentle stop.