Make sure everyone on board is wearing a life jacket.
Make sure everyone on board is wearing a life jacket.
Before casting off while warming your boat, ensure that all lines are properly stowed and secured to prevent tangling. Check that your fenders are in place to protect your vessel and the dock. Additionally, conduct a safety check to ensure all passengers are on board and wearing life jackets if necessary. Finally, verify that your engine and other systems are functioning correctly before you loosen the mooring lines.
Before casting off while warming up the engine, ensure that all lines are untied and securely stowed to prevent them from getting caught in the propeller. Check that fenders are properly positioned to protect the boat from the dock. Additionally, conduct a safety check to ensure all crew members are aboard and that safety equipment is readily accessible. Finally, confirm that the area around the boat is clear of obstacles and other vessels before proceeding.
When casting off with the wind or current moving away from the dock, it's best to position the boat at a slight angle to the dock. Start by casting off the bow lines first, allowing the wind or current to push the bow away from the dock. Then, release the stern line and use the engine to gently maneuver the boat away, ensuring you have enough space to steer clear of any obstacles. Always maintain control and be aware of your surroundings as you depart.
Before casting off while warming up the engine at a dock, you should ensure that all lines are properly untied and stowed to prevent any entanglement. Check your surroundings for other vessels, as well as for any potential obstacles or hazards in the water. Additionally, verify that all safety equipment is accessible and that the crew is aware of the intended departure. Finally, conduct a quick inspection of the boat to confirm that everything is in order for a safe departure.
If the current is holding the boat against the dock, the last line you should cast off is the bow line. This ensures that the boat remains stable and secured at the stern until you are ready to maneuver away from the dock, allowing for better control as you depart. Casting off the bow line last helps prevent the boat from being pushed sideways or away from the dock by the current.
have your fenders and dock lines ready before you approach the dock
A dock
the bow line
the bow line
have your fenders and dock lines ready before you approach the dock