Laser Guidance & Other Helpful Tips for Docking
Driving a boat is a lot harder than driving an automobile. The water is a far more unpredictable and unsteady surface compared to concrete roads. In addition, there is the obvious lack of a brake, which only serves to further complicate things.
While driving a boat is a difficult task in general, docking is most probably its trickiest aspect. Not only do you have to be able anticipate all your moves ahead of time, but one slight miscalculation could result in a nasty collision with other boats or with the dock itself.
Here are a few guidelines on mastering the art of docking with a little help from traditional techniques,along with a little technology.
Look
Always look before you steer. There is little margin for error when steering a boat. This is most especially true when you are docking since the presence of other boats only serve to complicate things.
Feel
Always consider windage. Winds can have a particularly larger effect on smaller boats. Remember to lessen windage—particularly in circumstances with heavy winds.
Use
According to Laser Tools Co, the use of laser guided docking systems is a huge help as it can guide you and reduce the likelihood of docking panic.
Slow and steady
Finally, it is better to always be cautious in your approach. As a rule of thumb, never approach the harbour with more speed than you are willing to collide against other objects with. Keep in mind though that using to little power is just as bad. Balancing power is the key to successful boat maneuvers.
Keep these useful tips in mind, continue practicing, and have a steady hand so that you will be able to have smooth dockings and avoid any untoward accidents at the harbour. Driving and docking a boat requires a lot of finesse, along with timely decision-making.