PURSUIT 2665 DENALI, Owner'S Manual

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2665 DENALI 90
maneuvering close to the dock consideration must be giving to the wind and current. You should
anticipate the effect these forces will have on the boat and use them to help put the boat where
you want it. It is important to practice in open water using an imaginary dock enough to develop
a sense for the way your boat handles in a variety of docking scenarios. You must be able to
foresee the possibilities and have solutions in mind before problems occur.
Approaching a dock or backing into a slip in high winds or strong currents requires a
considerable amount of skill. If you are new to boat handling, you should take lessons from
an experienced pilot to learn how to maneuver your boat in tight quarters in less than ideal
conditions. You should also practice away from the dock during windy conditions.
Dock lines are generally twisted or braided nylon. Nylon is strong and stretches to absorb
shock. It also has a long life and is soft and easy on the hands. The line's size will vary with
the size of the boat. Typically a 30 to 40 foot boat will use 5/8-inch line and a 20 to 30 foot
boat will use 1/2-inch line. The number of lines and their configuration will vary depending
on the dock, the range of the tide, and many other factors. Usually a combination of bow, stern
and spring lines is used to secure the boat.
Maneuvering to the Dock
Approach the dock slowly at a 30 to 40 degree angle. Whenever possible, approach against
the wind or current. Turn the outdrive straight & shift to neutral when you feel you have
enough momentum to reach the dock. Use reverse on the engine while turning the steering
wheel toward the dock to slow the boat and pull the stern toward the dock as the boat
approaches. Straighten the outdrive and use the engine to stop the boat if it is still moving
forward against the pilings. If you executed your approach properly, the boat will lightly
touch the pilings at the same time the forward momentum is stopped. Have the dock lines
ready and secure the boat as soon at it stops. Use fenders to protect the boat while it is docked.
Keep the engines running until the lines are secured.
Backing into a Slip
Approach the slip with the stern against the wind or current and the outdrive straight ahead.
Use the engine and turn the steering wheel to maneuver the boat into alignment with the slip.
Reverse the engine and slowly back into the slip. Shift from reverse to neutral frequently to
prevent the boat from gaining too much speed. Move the stern right and left by shifting the
engine in and out of gear or turning the wheel. When nearly in the slip all the way, straighten
the outdrive and shift to forward to stop. Keep the engines running until the lines are secured.
Securing Dock Lines
Securing a boat along side the dock typically requires a bow and stern line and two spring lines.
The bow and stern lines are usually secured to the dock at a 40° angle aft of the stern cleat and
forward of the bow cleat. The after bow spring line is secured to the dock at a 40° angle aft
of the after bow spring cleat. The forward quarter spring is secured to the dock at a 40° angle
forward of the stern cleat. The spring lines keep the boat square to the dock and reduce fore
and aft movement while allowing the boat to move up and down with the tide.