[Public-list] backing in to slip

[Rod Symmes]

I have been following with interest, the discussion about backing in to a slip.  Because my baby hangs on a mooring and I only go in to a marina a couple of times per year,  God help me if I had to put myself into a narrow slip with a cross wind or some other complication.  I should really find some place to practice.
    I heard a speaker at the Toronto boat show describe what I thought was a very clever trick.  It is not going to be easy to describe, but I have not noticed anyone mention it hear, yet, so I will give it a try.  These are the instructions for doing it "nose first" but I can't think of any reason why it wouldn't work while backing in.
    He began by reminding us that if we try to stop the forward motion of a boat by tightening up on a bow line, no matter how far aft the line is attached to the dock, the line will pull the bow into the side of the dock and your fenders will not likely protect her that far forward at the resulting angle.  However,  if you were to attach a line at a point on the rail that is opposite the center of your keel - when that line is anchored to the outer end of the finger dock it will cause your boat to pull straight sideways into the dock and therefore onto your fenders.  He was suggesting making up a line that is the right length to stop your bow at the distance you want from the head of the slip and with a large loop at the dock end so that it can be dropped over the "bollard" as your passing bye.  I would think this would be a great technique if the wind is blowing off (across) the finger dock.  A little forward thrust and rudder away from the dock should put you nicely up against the dock.
    Backing in using this trick might be even better when solo as the cockpit will be passing the end of the finger dock much sooner.   
    Well,  this has been an interesting academic exercise for me......now lets here from you guys that actually have to cope with this problem.........do you think this will work ??

Cheers,    Rod